Toxocariasis In A Lioness In Jos Zoo, Nigeria

Abstract

Wild animals in Zoos across the globe are kept for aesthetic, educational, recreational and conservation purposes. Collections of rare and endangered species are also preserved in Zoos. Lions do well in captivity but are prone to excessive worm burden especially round worms and tapeworms though these conditions can easily be managed with adequate Veterinary services. Incidence of toxocariasis in captive African lions (Panthera leo) in Nigeria has largely not been reported. Jos Zoo and Wildlife Park both in Plateau State of Nigeria have lost significant number of lions to toxocariasis due to inadequate Veterinary attention A fatal case of toxocariasis in an African Lioness in Jos Zoological Garden, Nigeria was presented as a case study.