Find in Library

Canine babesiosis is a disease caused by infection with parasites of the genus <i>Babesia</i>. These protozoa are classified as either large (e.g., <i>Babesia canis</i>) or small (e.g., <i>Babesia gibsoni</i>). So far, only three small <i>Babesia</i> species of clinical importance, able to infect dogs, have been described: <i>B. gibsoni</i>, <i>B. conradae</i>, and <i>B. vulpes</i>. This review presents the current epidemiological situation of <i>Babesia gibsoni</i> infections in dogs in Europe. In most European countries where <i>B. gibsoni</i> has been reported, the percentage of infected dogs is around 1%. The higher prevalence of the <i>B. gibsoni</i> infection among American Pit Bull Terriers suggests breed susceptibility. An analysis of the available data makes it possible to conclude that <i>B. gibsoni</i> infections may appear in the future in other non-endemic regions of Europe, which may pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for veterinary practitioners.