Leptospira spp. and Dirofilaria immitis in dogs in Tonga: a pilot study
Kristina Naden, Kate Harder
Sunday, April 2, 2023
Dogs are common in Tonga and exist in a close relationship with humans, both as free-ranging pets and guard dogs for domestic properties. Little is known about pathogens present in these animals, and this pilot study aimed to develop a methodology to identify the presence of zoonotic pathogens Leptospira spp. and Dirofilaria immitis (the causative agent of heartworm), in a sample of 82 dogs voluntarily presented to a spey/neuter clinic, using blood samples and point-of-care tests. No positive tests were returned for Leptospira spp. or D. immitis, despite the presence of Leptospira spp. having previously being identified in Tonga.
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