The impact of canine African trypanosomiasis in anti-poaching dogs in the Republic of Zambia

Abstract

Zambia introduced canine units in 2014 as an anti-poaching tool. Working in challenging environments, these dogs face several health threats, one being the protozoal, vector-borne canine African trypanosomiasis (CAT). This report aims to investigate the incidence, management and impact of CAT on Zambia's canine units. Case data during 2019–2023 were collated to investigate incidence and clinical trends. A questionnaire examining mitigation methods and perceived impact of the disease was distributed. Participants, conservation organisations with canine units, were identified using non-probability, purposive sampling. Twenty-three cases were reported, deriving an incidence rate of 0.315 new cases per dog-year, with peaks in October and August. Pyrexia was reported in every case, and neurological signs in the two fatalities. Diagnostics included peripheral/buffy coat smears, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). Trypanocides used were isometamidium chloride (IC) and diminazene aceturate (DA). Current mitigation focused on vector control and chemical prophylaxis (using isometamidium chloride), with CAT cases reported during theoretical IC-covered periods. In conclusion, incidence and extensive mitigation methods highlight the significance of CAT in these valuable dogs. Clinical manifestations, adverse drug effects, and preventative methods all carry the potential to affect health, work and welfare. To ensure a sustainable future, research into risk-factors, molecular diagnostics, trypanocides, and prevention of CAT is of utmost importance.