A global systematic review and meta‐analysis on the babesiosis in dogs with special reference to Babesia canis

BackgroundCanine babesiosis is a clinically significant tick‐transmitted disease caused by several species of the intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite Babesia, which result in a wide range of clinical manifestations, from mild, transient infection to serious disease and even death.ObjectivesThe current study aimed to estimate the global prevalence and associated risk factors of Babesia in dogs.MethodsMultiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science and Google Scholar) were searched for relevant literature published from January 2000 up to December 2022. The statistical analyses were performed based on the R software (version 3.6) meta‐package.ResultsOut of 23,864 publications, 229 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of canine babesiosis was 0.120 (95% CI; 0.097–0.146). The highest pooled prevalence was found in Europe (0.207, 95% CI; 0.097–0.344). Among several species, Babesia canis was the most prevalent parasite (0.216, 95% CI; 0.056–0.441). The highest pooled prevalence of Babesia in dogs was observed in the summer season (0.097, 95% CI; 0.040–0.174).ConclusionsRegular screening and appropriate control strategies are recommended for the prevention of transmission of tick‐borne disease transmission among dogs.