Sero-Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Brucella abortus in Dogs in North Central Nigeria

Background and Objective: In veterinary hospitals in Nigeria’s North Central Region, serological testing for brucellosis is Not a Common Practice (NCN). As a result, this study was carried out to find out how common brucellosis is in dogs in NCN. Materials and Methods: A total of 550 sera samples were collected from dogs presented to the veterinary clinics, dog kennels and dog breeder homes. The samples were analyzed using the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) which gave a prevalence of 239 (43.46%). Results: The result indicated the highest seroprevalence of 125 (56.82%) by RBPT for dogs 12 months old and above. This was followed by dogs aged 6-11 months with a rate of 79 (41.58%). The lowest seroprevalence 35 (25.00%) was recorded amongst dogs aged 0-6 months. Sex distribution of Brucella abortus among dogs in NCN indicated that female dogs had the highest seroprevalence of 185 (44.58%), while male dogs had the least percentage rate of 54 (40.00%). The seasonal distribution of Brucella abortus among dogs in NCN indicated that the highest seroprevalence of 165 (68.75%) was recorded in the wet season. The least percentage prevalence rates of 74 (23.87%) were recorded in the dry season. The result indicated the highest seroprevalence of 142 (59.66%) for local breeds of dogs. Mix-bred dogs had the least rate of 60 (26%). Exotic breeds of dogs however had a seroprevalence of 37 (43.53%). Based on management systems, the highest seroprevalence of 190 (53.37%) was recorded in dogs reared extensively and the least rates of 49 (25.26%) were recorded in dogs reared intensively. Conclusion: A cost-effective federal government policy on the control and eradication of this important zoonotic disease is indicated.