A survey of the ectoparasitic infestations of dogs in Nigeria

Between January and December 1973, a survey of ectoparasitic infections of domestic dogs was carried out at Ibadan. The ectoparasites were detached from dogs brought for treatment at the two veterinary clinics in Ibadan and from those living in the less developed areas of Ibadan. A similar but briefer survey was made during a trip to the northern states in August.
Ticks were the most common ectoparasite found on the dogs. Among these, Rhipicephalus sanguineus predominated throughout the year. Another species, R. longus was strongly represented in some of the northern towns. The only myiasis producing larvae obtained were those of Cordylobia anthro-pophaga and they were most common during the wet season. Very few lice and fleas were obtained.