# Canine Demodicosis in Rupandehi Nepal’s Street Dogs: Prevalence, Clinical Signs, and Hematology

## TL;DR

This study found that 21% of street dogs in Nepal had a skin mite infection, with higher rates in puppies, females, and overweight dogs, and changes in blood cell counts.

## Contribution

The study reports the first prevalence data of Demodex canis in Rupandehi's street dogs and identifies risk factors and hematological changes.

## Key findings

- 21% of street dogs were infested with Demodex canis mites.
- Infected dogs showed alopecia on legs and increased neutrophils and eosinophils in blood tests.
- The infection was more common in puppies, females, mixed breeds, and overweight dogs.

## Abstract

Canine demodicosis is a skin disease in dogs that is caused by microscopic mites infesting hair follicles. This study examined the prevalence, clinical symptoms, and blood parameters of this disease among street dogs in Rupandehi, Nepal, and how this mite affected their health. Skin samples were taken from 100 street dogs with skin problems between August 2023 and January 2025. Microscopic examination of those samples revealed that 21% of the dogs were infested with Demodex canis mites. The condition was more likely to be seen in puppies, female dogs, cross-breed dogs, and dogs with higher than ideal body weight. Affected dogs had an evident loss of hair on their legs. Blood tests indicated increased levels of neutrophils and eosinophils, signaling an immune response, and a decrease in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. These findings highlight the significance of intensive monitoring and diagnosis of demodicosis among street dogs to improve their health and well-being.

Canine demodicosis is a contagious skin disease caused by the over-proliferation of Demodex mites in the host’s hair follicles. This study examines the prevalence, clinical signs, and hematological changes associated with demodicosis in street dogs of Rupandehi, Nepal. Between August 2023 and January 2024, 100 skin scrapings were collected from each street dog presenting dermatological symptoms. The samples, treated with 10% KOH and microscopically examined, revealed a 21% positivity rate for demodicosis, with all cases involving Demodex canis. The infection predominantly affected young puppies (37.5%), females (21.6%), mixed breeds (33.3%), and dogs with above-ideal body conditions (25%). There was no significant association between infection and variables such as age, gender, breed, or nutritional status. Clinically, all affected dogs exhibited alopecia, primarily on the legs. Hematological assessments indicated significant increases in neutrophils and eosinophils and a notable decrease in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and lymphocytes among infected dogs (p < 0.05). This study underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and comprehensive diagnostic practices in effectively managing and treating canine demodicosis, especially in street dogs.