Pet owners are being asked to stay vigilant after a dog was put down after becoming sick with an “exotic parasite” not previously found in NZ-bred canines.
The parasite, called babesia gibsoni, was detected in a dog in Canterbury. It was euthanised at the request of its owners after becoming “extremely” sick.
According to Biosecurity New Zealand’s chief veterinary officer Dr Mary van Andel, the parasite is often transmitted through ticks.
“So, we are encouraging dog owners to make sure their dogs are up to date with their flea and tick treatment,” she said.
The parasite can also be spread through dog bites, blood transfusions, and the placenta from an infected mother to her puppies. It is often found in a “select group of breeds,” which includes pit bull terriers, Staffordshire bull terriers, and greyhounds.
She said that while the parasite is “widespread” around the world, it had never been detected in a New Zealand-bred dog until now.
“In countries where babesia gibsoni is widespread, the focus is on preventing infection by treating dogs with tick treatments or combined with flea treatments and limiting fighting behaviour.”
Van Andel said that dog owners have no need to be alarmed at the moment, but they should still make sure their pets are up to date with flea and tick treatments.
“Dogs without symptoms or that have recovered from infection often reach a balance where their immune system suppresses the parasite. However, this means they may still spread the parasite and may develop disease if they become immune compromised.
“At this stage, we are aware of just one case of babesia gibsoni in New Zealand. We are working hard to determine whether this is an isolated case and where it came from.”
Biosecurity New Zealand is now “working closely” with the infected dog’s owners to identify any other animals she may have been in contact with.
“A second dog in the household has had blood taken for testing and early results are negative for the disease. Samples have also been taken from several dogs known to be close contacts of the infected dog and another playmate of the infected dog,” van Andel said.
“We’re asking vets to help our investigation by contacting us if they have any suspected cases of babesia gibsoni and have been in touch with registered doggy daycare operators to alert them to the case so they can keep an eye out for ticks and remain vigilant in preventing biting and fighting between dogs.”
She encouraged anyone who is concerned about their dog’s health to contact a vet.
