| Summary: | <p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Dogs are the most common pet animals worldwide. They may harbour a wide range of parasites with zoonotic potential, thus causing a health risk to humans. In Nigeria, epidemiological knowledge on these parasites is limited.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>In a community-based study, we examined 396 dogs in urban and rural areas of Ilorin (Kwara State, Central Nigeria) for ectoparasites and intestinal helminths. In addition, a questionnaire regarding knowledge and practices was applied to pet owners.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Nine ectoparasite species belonging to four taxa and six intestinal helminth species were identified: fleas (<it>Ctenocephalides canis, Pulex irritans, Tunga penetrans</it>), mites (<it>Demodex canis, Otodectes </it>sp., <it>Sarcoptes scabiei </it>var. <it>canis</it>), ticks (<it>Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Ixodes </it>sp.), and lice (<it>Trichodectes canis</it>); and <it>Toxocara canis, Ancylostoma </it>sp., <it>Trichuris vulpis, Dipylidium caninum</it>, Taenidae and <it>Strongyloides </it>sp. Overall prevalence of ectoparasites was 60.4% and of intestinal helminths 68.4%. The occurrence of <it>C. canis, R. sanguineus, T. canis, Ancylostoma </it>sp. and <it>T. vulpis </it>was most common (prevalence 14.4% to 41.7%). Prevalence patterns in helminths were age-dependent, with <it>T. canis </it>showing a decreasing prevalence with age of host, and a reverse trend in other parasite species. Knowledge regarding zoonoses was very limited and the diseases not considered a major health problem. Treatment with antiparasitic drugs was more frequent in urban areas.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Parasites of importance for human health were highly prevalent in Nigerian dogs. Interventions should include health education provided to dog owners and the establishment of a program focusing on zoonotic diseases.</p>
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