# Serological Evidence of Selected Tick-Borne Pathogens and Dirofilaria immitis in Owned Dogs from Italy and Greece

## TL;DR

This study found that many dogs in Italy and Greece are exposed to tick-borne diseases and heartworm, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring.

## Contribution

The study provides updated seroprevalence data on vector-borne pathogens in owned dogs from Italy and Greece.

## Key findings

- 40.4% of dogs tested positive for at least one vector-borne pathogen.
- Older dogs and those with clinical signs were more likely to test positive.
- Rickettsia conorii had the highest antibody prevalence among the pathogens tested.

## Abstract

Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) represent a threat to both animal and human health. The geographical distribution of these diseases has recently changed and expanded in many countries due to multiple driving factors. The present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of selected CVBDs in owned dogs from Italy and Greece. The results of the study confirm that dogs living in these countries are exposed to several vector-borne pathogens. Therefore, continuous epidemiological surveillance is essential to generate updated data and support the implementation of appropriate control strategies.

Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs) are caused by pathogens transmitted by several invertebrates, posing a significant threat to both animal and human health worldwide. In recent years, the geographical distribution of CVBDs has changed in many countries, driven by climate change, increased pet travel, movements of goods, and anthropization of wildlife habitats. This study investigated the exposure to major CVBDs in 423 owned dogs from Italy and Greece. Individual serum samples were analyzed using serological methods. The SNAP® 4Dx IDEXX test was used to detect Dirofilaria immitis circulating antigens and antibodies against Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Borrelia burgdorferi. Additionally, an indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) was used to detect antibodies against Rickettsia conorii and Babesia canis. Overall, 171 (40.4%) dogs were positive for at least one pathogen. Antibodies against R. conorii, Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., B. canis and B. burgdorferi were detected in 118 (27.9%), 28 (6.6%), 29 (6.8%), 5 (1.2%) and 3 (0.7%) dogs, respectively. Dirofilaria immitis antigens were found in 7 dogs (1.6%). A Binomial Logistic Regression was performed and revealed a statistically significant association between age (dogs > 7 years old) (p = 0.005; OR = 1.903; 95% CI = 1.215–2.2981) and presence of at least one clinical sign (p = 0.028; OR = 4.082; 95% CI = 1.168–14.262) and positivity to at least one vector-borne pathogen. These findings confirm that dogs in both Italy and Greece are exposed to a range of vector-borne pathogens and highlight the importance of continuous epidemiological surveillance in European regions.