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Rabies virus (RABV) may infect wildlife, domestic mammals, and humans worldwide, and outbreaks have been associated with population declines of wild carnivores. Although RABV infection has been considered almost invariably fatal, there has been growing evidence of non-lethal RABV exposure in wildlife. The aim of this study is to investigate the occurrence of RABV antibodies, as evidence of non-lethal exposure to the virus in free-living wild canids and felids from the Brazilian Pampa. Animals were live-trapped in three protected and two unprotected areas in Southern Brazil, and the presence of antibodies against RABV was verified by the RFFIT test. A total of 98 specimens without clinical signs of disease were live-trapped: 35 Cerdocyon thous, 23 Lycalopex gymnocercus, 29 Leopardus geoffroyi, 11 Leopardus wiedii. Thirteen out of 98 wild carnivores were considered seropositive to RABV: five C. thous, one L. gymnocercus, five L. geoffroyi, and two L. wiedii. All five localities where animals were sampled had at least one seropositive individual. The results support previous conclusions regarding the possible involvement of C. thous in the rabies ecology and expand the findings of RABV-seropositivity in free-living wildlife, representing the first record for the following species: L. gymnocercus, L. geoffroyi, and L. wiedii. Our findings also suggest that RABV circulation and non-lethal exposure in Neotropical wild carnivores may be more common than previously assumed. Furthermore, rabies and its sylvatic cycle should be taken into account in any conservation effort for wild carnivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Canidae family, cases of infanticide have been recorded in populations of dingoes, wolves and red foxes. The consumption of individuals from the same species has not been recorded yet for the crab‐eating fox (Cerdocyon thous), a medium‐sized South American canid with generalist eating habits; however, in a semi‐arid region in north‐eastern Brazil, two C. thous faecal samples were found in August and October 2018 with fur and fragments of paws from young individuals of this species. Cases of offspring consumption have also been reported in other carnivore species from semi‐arid regions, and it is a phenomenon that might be related to the scarcity of resources and a mechanism for obtaining food. Competition for resources is also hypothesized to explain these natural events in nature, as the death of a pup results in greater access to resources for the parent and its offspring. Thus, infanticide can increase the chances of survival of the mother or the other pups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we document two records related to potential food opportunism in crab-eating fox, Cerdocyon thous. The records were made in Itapuã State Park, Viamão, RS, Brazil, and were obtained through camera traps. These showed individuals of C. thous carrying a brown howler monkey and an unidentified fish, both already lifeless. There are no records of howler monkey consumption by this species of carnivore, and fish are considered as unusual taxa in its diet. We assume that the captures occurred with the animals already dead, illustrating the food opportunism of the species and the potential occurrence of scavenging by this canid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piroplasmids and Hepatozoon spp. Are apicomplexan protozoa that may cause disease in several canid species. The present study aimed to expand the knowledge on the diversity of piroplasmids and Hepatozoon in crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous ; n = 12) sampled in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul State, central-western Brazil. PCR assays based on the 18S rRNA were used as screening. Three (25%) and 11 (91.7%) were positive for piroplasmids and Hepatozoon spp., respectively. Co-infection was found in three C. thous. Phylogenetic analyses based on the near-complete 18S rRNA, cox-1 and hsp70 genes evidenced the occurrence of a novel of Babesia spp. (namely Babesia pantanalensis nov. sp.) closely related to Rangelia vitalii and Babesia sp. 'Coco'. This finding was supported by the genetic divergence analysis which showed (i) high divergence, ranging from 4.17 to 5.62% for 18 S rRNA, 6.16% for hps70 and 4.91–9.25% for cox-1 and (ii) the genotype network (which displayed sequences separated from the previously described Piroplasmida species by median vectors and several mutational events). Also, phylogenetic analysis based on the 18S rRNA gene of Hepatozoon spp. positioned the sequences obtained herein in a clade phylogenetically related to Hepatozoon sp. 'Curupira 2', Hepatozoon sp. detected in domestic and wild canids from Uruguay and Hepatozoon americanum. The present study described Babesia pantanalensis nov sp. and Hepatozoon closely related to H. americanum in crab-eating foxes from Brazil. Moreover, the coinfection by piroplasmids and Hepatozoon sp. for the first time in crab-eating foxes strongly suggesting that this wild canid species potentially acts as a bio-accumulate of hemoprotozoan in wild environment. [Display omitted] • A putative novel species named Babesia pantanlensis nov. Sp. Was detected and described circulating in crab-eating foxes. • Detection of Hepatozoon sp. Closely related to H. americanum in crab-eating foxes. • Coinfection between piroplasmid and Hepatozoon sp. Was described for the first time in crab-eating foxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South America, apicomplexan parasites of the genus Hepatozoon have been sporadically detected in mammals. Previous studies in wild canids from Brazil and Argentina demonstrated infections by species genetically related to Hepatozoon americanum. The aim of the present work was to detect the presence of Hepatozoon in road-killed foxes encountered in Uruguayan highways. Blood samples from 45 crab-eating (Cerdocyon thous) and 32 grey pampean (Lycalopex gymnocercus) foxes were analyzed by PCR for Hepatozoon 18S rRNA gene. Eight foxes (10.4%) were found to be infected with an H. americanum-like protozoan, an Hepatozoon closely related to H. americanum. Bayesian and maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analyses revealed that the sequences obtained in this study cluster with H. americanum from the United States, and with an H. americanum-like species from dog and foxes from Brazil and Argentina. In the Unites States, H. americanum causes severe disease in dogs. In addition to this, an increasing habitat overlap between dogs and foxes makes the presence of H. americanum-like protozoan in foxes acquires veterinary relevance. This work represents the first report of L. gymnocercus infected with an H. americanum-like protozoan, and of wild canids infected with Hepatozoon in Uruguay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cavitary fluids exams assist in the diagnosis of diseases in veterinary medicine, but sometimes, this exam is not much requested. The aim of this study was to identify what diagnoses are most recurrent in relation to pleural and abdominal effusions laboratory findings, as well as the relationships of canine and cat gender and age. The laboratory and clinical data from 416 cases of canine cavitary effusions from 2008 to 2015 were retrospectively assessed from the University Veterinary Hospital, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. Out of the 419 samples included in this study, 311 samples were from dogs and 105 from cats. The main causes of effusions in dogs were heart failure, neoplasm, liver disease, hypoproteinaemia and pyometra. In cats, cases of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), neoplasms, disease and rupture of lower urinary tract, and heart disease predominated. Cavitary effusions due to neoplasms predominated in animals over 8 years of age in both species, mainly affecting females. The aetiopathological diagnosis of cavity effusions varies according to species, age group and gender. These differences greatly assist the clinician to address clinical suspicion associated with the type of fluid-present, history and general examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomical variation in wild canids is rarely described. Altered shapes, uni‐ or bilaterally situated, were observed in ventral laminae of C6 and/or in C7 vertebral body of two fox species: Lycalopex gymnocercus and Cerdocyon thous. The specimens were young adults, collected dead on highways in southern Brazil. Deformities were considered anatomical variations because apparently there was no interference in function. The occurrence of such variations in two related species from the same area can suggest an environmental common cause rather than genetic issues. Future studies may deepen the understanding between cause and effect of these vertebral deformities in wild canids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local attitudes towards carnivores often reflect the degree of damage they are perceived to cause. Consequently, understanding the interactions between people and these species is essential to conservation efforts. This study investigated local perceptions of three Cerrado canid species and current chicken management practices, to identify the potential damage they cause and how this relates to peoples' attitudes towards these species. Results from structured interviews at 50 ranches in Goiás, Brazil, highlighted that general knowledge about Cerrado canids differed significantly by species, with interviewees unable to correctly answer questions about the hoary fox Lycalopex vetulus and crab-eating fox Cerdocyon thous in comparison to the maned wolf Chrysocyon brachyurus. Chicken coops were identified as the most effective method for preventing predation, yet only 44% of respondents employed this method. Using a perceived predation measure, interviewees reported chicken predation by all three Cerrado canids even though most of these events were stated to occur during the day, outside the species' active periods. Reported predation events were a strong predictor of attitude. Participants who experienced predation events reported they did not like having a Cerrado canid on their property. However, 86% of the respondents agreed that Cerrado canids should nevertheless be protected. Our findings support the need to incorporate the human dimension in canid and broader carnivore conservation issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infrared thermography is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging method that does not require animal restraint. This tool provides instant images in real time, even at great distances, being very advantageous for wild animals. The thermograph measures the frequency of infrared rays, it locates hot or cold regions in the body tissues, detecting physiological or pathological processes that modify body temperature. In the veterinary diagnosis of wild animals, thermal imaging is used to determine lesions, inflammation and the anatomical location that causes lameness. It also can be used to diagnosis infectious diseases, reproductive period or gestation and to measure animal welfare and stress levels. This research aimed to use infrared thermography as a tool for remote diagnosis in Brazilian canids and felids kept ex-situ at the Sorocaba Zoo, Brazil. During one year the images were recorded biweekly in 42 individuals (18 canids and 24 felids). No thermal change was noticed in the images taken biweekly. Twelve animals presented symptoms at different times, then images were taken immediately and recorded every 3 days to follow the evolution of the clinical signs and treatment. Atypical images were interpreted and correlated with the clinical signs. The method showed good sensitivity all over the body when applied to felids. In the canids there was good sensitivity for head and limb disorders, because these regions have shorter hair. It is concluded that thermography is an important diagnostic tool for canids and felids, being an examination carried out at a distance, without stress, non-invasive and painless, prioritizing animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine babesiosis is a common haemoparasitosis in Brazil. Caused by parasites of the genus Babesia, it is transmitted by ixodid ticks and affects domestic and wild canids. The objective of this study was to verify the prevalence of Babesia species (spp.) using molecular methods in dogs living in urban and rural areas of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso State, Brazil, and to identify the main factors associated with infection. A total of 407 samples from 407 dogs were evaluated using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique, among which Babesia species (spp.) was amplified in 10 (2.5%). Although, no statistical association was found among the variables studied (p>0.05), greater positivity was observed in dogs<1 year of age, male sex, those with free access to the street, and the presence of ticks. PCR samples positive for Babesia spp. were submitted to sequencing and compared in GenBank and exhibited a high degree of similarity with Babesia vogeli sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to assess the potential impact of climate change on the geographic distribution of areas holding suitable climatic conditions for the presence of Lycalopex vetulus , and to discuss the implications of such distribution for the conservation of the species. We employed correlative modeling analyses to infer the geographic distribution of climatically suitable conditions for the species on climatic scenarios for the present and for years 2050 (average for 2041–2060) and 2070 (average for 2061–2080). The data consisted of species occurrences and 5 bioclimatic variables containing interpolated and averaged information on seasonal variation of temperature and precipitation. Models were projected onto climatic scenarios employing three different global circulation models and two representative concentration pathways. For each of these scenarios, we quantified the expected changes in area (km2) holding suitable climatic conditions and how much of that area is expected to be within the current Brazilian system of protected areas. Our results reveal that climate change represents a major threat for the survival of L. vetulus by drastically reducing its habitat availability in a period of time no longer than five decades from now. Experimental physiological and behavioral studies are necessary to assess whether L. vetulus is able to adequately tolerate under climatic conditions different to those under which the species is currently present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To estimate the general prevalence of Anaplasma spp. and specific prevalence of A. platys and A. phagocytophilum in canines, through studies published between 2000 and 2018. Material and methods. Systematic review with 14 search strategies, guaranteeing completeness and reproducibility according PRISMA. Quality was evaluated with STROBE. The global prevalence and the specific ones were estimated according to country, period and diagnostic test, with their confidence intervals of 95%. Forest Plot was performed for the individual and global prevalence of A platys or A. phagocytophilum according to PCR, ELISA and IFI, which were compared based on Statistic Z. Results. Thirty studies were included with 18 472 canines, mostly from Brazil, United States and Germany. In IFI the prevalence was 39.0% (95% CI = 37.0-41.0), in ELISA 9.3% (95% CI = 8.8-9.8) and in CRP 7.1% (95% CI = 6.4-7.8). The prevalence based on CRP was statistically greater in America with 11.9% (95% CI = 10.5-13.3) compared to 5.5% in Africa (95% CI = 1.2-9.7), Asia 4.1% (95% CI = 3.1-5.1) and Europe 3.5% (95% CI = 2.5-4.5). The prevalence of A. platys with CRP was 16.1% (IC95% = 14.2-17.9) and of A. phagocytophilum 3.7% (95% CI = 2.8-4.6). Conclusions. A high prevalence of global infection was found, with greater importance of A. platys, in a low number of publications worldwide and with a high heterogeneity according to the country, the diagnostic technique and the species involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to assess the potential impact of climate change on the geographic distribution of areas holding suitable climatic conditions for the presence of Lycalopex vetulus, and to discuss the implications of such distribution for the conservation of the species. We employed correlative modeling analyses to infer the geographic distribution of climatically suitable conditions for the species on climatic scenarios for the present and for years 2050 (average for 2041–2060) and 2070 (average for 2061–2080). The data consisted of species occurrences and 5 bioclimatic variables containing interpolated and averaged information on seasonal variation of temperature and precipitation. Models were projected onto climatic scenarios employing three different global circulation models and two representative concentration pathways. For each of these scenarios, we quantified the expected changes in area (km2) holding suitable climatic conditions and how much of that area is expected to be within the current Brazilian system of protected areas. Our results reveal that climate change represents a major threat for the survival of L. vetulus by drastically reducing its habitat availability in a period of time no longer than five decades from now. Experimental physiological and behavioral studies are necessary to assess whether L. vetulus is able to adequately tolerate under climatic conditions different to those under which the species is currently present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mammary tumours represent about 50 to 70% of all neoplasms in female dogs and their occurrence is directly related to the reproductive status and patient's age. The purpose of this research was to apply the Brazilian consensus on diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of canine mammary tumours and to define the regional epidemiological aspects of canine mammary gland tumours in Vitoria metropolitan region (ES, Brazil) between 2012 and 2016 and to correlate the macroscopic characteristics such as lesion size and location of the neoplasm with histopathological diagnosis, tumours grade and lymph node metastasis. Materials, Methods & Results: Data were collected from the archives of the Laboratory of Animal Pathology of UVV and medical records of patients attended at the Veterinary Hospital Prof. Ricardo Alexandre Hippler in 5 years (2012 to 2016). The animals were separated into groups by age to facilitate classification in the group with the highest occurrence of neoplasms. The evaluation of the macroscopic characteristics was performed through the histopathological record described in the pathology laboratory, for each patient, at the time of the initial evaluation. After descriptive analysis, data was correlated using Spearmann test, and frequency dispersion was evaluated using chi-square test, both in the software Graph Pad Prism v. 6.01. This study included 255 bitches and diagnosis of 486 lesions, once 48.6% of the dogs had more than one lesion, classified according to the Brazilian Consensus for Canine Mammary Tumours and graded according to Elston and Ellis system. 86.8% of lesions were consistent with actual mammary neoplasms, of which 67% were malignant and 20% were benign. Non-neoplastic lesions corresponded to 7.2% of cases and 5.8% were extra-mammary neoplasms, with an increased incidence of lipomas (39.3%) and mast cell tumours (32.1%). Cross-breed dogs represented 26.7% of cases. Poodles (25.5%), Pinschers (9.8%) and Dachshund (4.7%) were overrepresented. Among mammary glands, inguinal and caudal abdominal were the most affected with 30.8% and 25.4%, respectively. Regarding the histopathological grade, 43.7% of the malignant mammary gland tumours were grade I, 40% grade II and 16.2% grade III. The neoplasms smaller than 3 cm in diameter, corresponded to 43.7% malignant neoplasms, of which 75 corresponded to grade I. Those larger or equal to 3-5 cm in diameter corresponded to 22.1% malignant neoplasm, of which 31 corresponded to grade II, and those larger than 5 cm in diameter corresponded to 25.8% malignant neoplasms, of which 34 corresponded to grade II. Macroscopic ulceration was reported in 35/486 neoplasms; of these, 85.7% were malignant. Microscopically necrosis was evidenced in 11.7% of malignant neoplasms and there was a weak, positive correlation between the occurrence of necrosis and ulceration (P < 0.0001; rs = 0.223), which was also correlated with tumour size and histological grade. Of these patients, 24.4% had metastases, and of these, 8.8% presented macroscopic abnormalities in the lymph node. Discussion: Older dogs are at higher risk of developing malignant mammary gland tumour when compared to young bitches, most neoplasms with a histopathological grade III occurred in animals older than 10 years, in agreement with the literature. Age increasing might be related to more biologically aggressive mammary gland tumours. Early neutering is commonly recommended to prevent proliferative abnormalities in the mammary glands, but it has been related to several disorders, and neoplasms, in some breeds. Multiple tumours in more than one mammary gland with different histopathological diagnoses among them, isn't related to multicentric disease or worse prognosis, as also seen in this survey. Among mammary glands, the inguinal and caudal abdominal are often the most affected, as it was observed in this study; however, no differences were observed in the occurrence of malignant neoplasms, benign or non-neoplastic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chigger mites are ectoparasites of terrestrial vertebrates and can cause severe dermatitis in their hosts, known as trombiculiasis. There are 69 recognized species of chiggers in Brazil that parasitize most vertebrate taxa except domestic dogs. In this study, we report the first known record of trombiculiasis with a domestic dog as a host in Brazil. This record additionally represents a new locality record for Eutrombicula daemoni in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Spotted fevers are tick‐borne diseases associated with various Rickettsia species. Rickettsia parkeri sensu stricto (s.s.) is the agent of an emerging eschar‐associated rickettsiosis in humans from the USA and South American Pampa. Considering that R. parkeri s.s. is restricted to Americas and the potential role of dogs in the epidemiology of the disease, it is thus reasonable to hypothesize that wild canids could be involved in the enzootic cycle of this rickettsiosis. The aim of this work was to investigate the potential role of the wild canids from Pampa, Cerdocyon thous (crab‐eating fox) and Lycalopex gymnocercus (Pampas fox), in the ecology of R. parkeri s.s. For that, 32 live‐trapped free‐ranging wild canids were sampled. Ticks were observed in 30 of the 32 foxes. Of the 292 ticks collected, 22 (7.5%) were positive by PCR for the presence of R. parkeri s.s. DNA. Also, 20 (62%) wild canids showed antibodies against R. parkeri. The results suggest that wild canids are involved in the enzootic cycle of R. parkeri s.s. in the Pampa biome and could be responsible for pathogen (and its vectors) dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key components of the Brazilian Program for the Control of Visceral Leishmaniasis (PCLV) is the euthanasia of Leishmania -infected canine reservoirs, the detection of which depends on a screening procedure involving a Dual Path Platform ® (DPP) immunoassay and a confirmatory enzyme -linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The aims of the present study were to evaluate the reliability of these techniques in a region of recent transmission of canine VL, to follow up the seroconversion 3–4 months after the initial diagnosis of DPP reactive but ELISA indeterminate or non-reactive dogs, and to identify the species of Leishmania in circulation in the area. Each animal was submitted to DPP under field conditions, performed by municipal health workers using peripheral blood (DPP-field), to DPP under laboratory conditions using serum (DPP-lab) and to ELISA using serum. The agreements between the tests were determined using McNemar's χ 2 test, Cohen’s kappa coefficient ( k ) at the 95% confidence interval and prevalence -adjusted bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK). Of the 1130 dogs examined, 74.2% were non-reactive in all three tests applied. Based on the PCLV positive-infection criterion, seroprevalence was 8.9% (101/1130) with 83.2% (84/101) of infected animals showing reactivity in all three tests while 7.8% (8/101) were reactive in DPP-field and ELISA and 8.9% (9/101) in DPP-lab and ELISA. The proportions of disagreements were substantial in all comparisons. Inter-rater reliability between DPP-field and ELISA ( k = 0.55; PABAK = 0.78) and DPP-lab and ELISA ( k = 0.59; PABAK = 0.81) were considered moderate, while that between DPP-field and DPP-lab ( k = 0.61; PABAK = 0.79) was classified as marginally good. The proportion of seroconversions in DPP reactive animals that were initially ELISA indeterminate was significantly higher than in those that were DPP reactive but initially ELISA non-reactive. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis revealed the presence of Leishmania infantum , the etiologic agent of VL, in bone marrow samples from VL-infected animals. Our data showed that the techniques and protocols currently employed in the PCLV screening approach are not entirely reliable. Further consideration should be given to monitoring dogs with undetermined results in ELISA and a better training should be provided for health workers responsible for performing DPP tests applied under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the period from January 2004 to December 2015, 56 dogs were diagnosed with rangeliosis in the Setor de Patologia Veterinária at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (SPV-UFRGS). The main hematological abnormalities were thrombocytopenia and anemia. The affected dogs showed signs of apathy, anorexia, fetid and bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. At necropsy, the main changes were jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and lymphadenomegaly. Histological analyses revealed parasitophorous vacuoles of Rangelia vitalii in cytoplasmic endothelial cells, mainly in the heart, kidneys, lymph nodes, intestines, and pancreas. Inflammation characterized by mononuclear cells was predominant in the analysis, and most was due to the presence of plasma cells. Other lesion types observed were lymphoid hyperplasia, extramedullary hematopoiesis, erythrophagocytosis, and erythroid lineage hyperplasia in bone marrow. Of the total number of animals, 49 were diagnosed using necropsy and histological analysis, and seven were diagnosed using a molecular analysis (i.e., PCR and genetic sequencing of blood samples). This paper presented a different method of diagnosing rangeliosis in canines. This approach involved histological methods including the quantification and determination of the intensity and distribution of the infectious agent in different organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nematodes of the superfamily Metastrongyloidea affect the respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems of domestic carnivores and are uncommonly detected in wild animals. This report describes the lesions associated with pulmonary parasitism by nematodes of the superfamily Metastrongyloidea in a wild crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) in the Federal District, Brazil. Grossly, there was pulmonary hyperemia, edema, and emphysema. Microscopically, there was granulomatous arteritis associated with intravascular metastrongylid. The anatomical location, characteristic lesion, and histological features of the parasite suggested that the nematode involved in this case is Angiostrongylus vasorum. This worm is frequently reported parasitizing pulmonary arteries of domestic canids but is uncommonly described in wild canids in Midwestern Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bush dog (Speothos venaticus) is a small Neotropical canid. Although its distribution covers the entire Amazon basin, the occurrence of bush dogs in vast areas of the Amazon remains hypothetical. The records of bush dogs presented in this study reduce a large gap in the known distribution of the species in Central Amazonia and include the 1st documentation of the species from forest seasonally flooded by black water (Igapó). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dirofilaria immitis is a zoonotic filarid that mainly affects the domestic dog, causing a generally fatal chronic disease, known as heart worm disease. In addition to dogs, the parasite can affect wild canids, cats, and humans. Due to its importance to One Health, detection of parasitism by D. immitis in dogs can help the adoption of control measures that aim to reduce the occurrence of parasitosis in animals and humans. The detection of D. immitis is based on the use of parasitological, serological, and molecular methods, which vary in sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate and compare the efficiency and performance of parasitological, serological, and molecular tests in the detection of D. immitis in dogs in Northeastern Brazil. Whole blood and serum from 140 dogs from the municipality of Sousa were used, varying between males and females; aged one to 17 years; pure and mixed breeds; domiciled and stray. Three microscopic parasitological techniques (MPT) were used: capillary blood smear (CBS), peripheral (PBS) and modified Knott test (MK) associated with the morphometric diagnosis of the microfilariae. For the detection of D. immitis antigens, a rapid immunochromatographic test (RIT) (ALERE Dirofilariose AG Teste kit®, Seogu-dong, Korea) was used, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a molecular method. To evaluate the tests, PCR was considered the gold standard, and sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) values were calculated. To verify the agreement of the tests, the Kappa test was performed (p ≤ 0.05). From the 140 analyzed samples, 33.6% (48/140) presented microfilariae, antigen and/or parasitic DNA. 23.6% (33/140) were positive in the CBS; 25.7% (36/140) in the PBS; 29.3% (41/140) in the MK; 30% (42/140) in the RIT and 28.6% (40/140) in the PCR. All methods showed almost perfect agreement with PCR, high sensitivity (0.8–0.95), specificity (0.94–0.99), and values established with VPP (0.8571–0.9722) and VPN (0.9519–0.9797). The CBS and PBS showed less sensitivity and greater specificity. MK presented the highest sensitivity and RIT was the choice for hidden infections. Considering the occurrence of D. immitis in dogs in a non-coastal region of Northeastern Brazil, an epidemiological approach is recommended to identify risk factors for this zoonotic parasitosis. [Display omitted] • Almost perfect agreement of parasitological and serological exams with PCR in the detection of D. immitis in dogs. • CBS and PBS were the techniques with the lowest sensitivity and highest specificity. • MK was considered the most sensitive test. • RIT was the most suitable test to evaluate hidden infections. • Occurrence of infection of D. immitis in dogs in a non-coastal region of Northeast Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maned wolf is the largest South American canid, and in Brazil, its distribution is closely associated with the Cerrado, one of the most threatened biomes in the world. Although the Cerrado have few, small, and often isolated protected areas, these fragments are crucial for the persistence of wide-ranging mammals, providing protection and resources, and facilitating their dispersal movements, especially in areas of intense human activity. Here, we estimated the minimum population size and genetic diversity of maned wolves inhabiting one of the last refuges of Cerrado vegetation in São Paulo State, the most developed, industrialized, and populous state of Brazil. Through fecal DNA analysis of five microsatellite loci, during a 13-month sampling period, we identified 13 maned wolves and observed a genetic diversity similar to other studies conducted in larger and better preserved areas of the central region of the country. However, unlike those studies, we found evidence of inbreeding, deviations from Hardy-Weinberg expectations, and a larger number of animals in relation to the sampled area, thus providing evidence that the population may be threatened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a neglected disease and is fatal if untreated. Dogs serve as reservoirs for Leishmania infantum (syn. L. chagasi) due to their susceptibility to infection and high skin parasitism. Therefore, VL control in Brazil involves the elimination of seropositive dogs, among other actions. However, the most frequently used serological tests have limitations regarding sensitivity and specificity. In this study, we have selected three Leishmania antigens (C1, C8 and C9) and have produced them as recombinant proteins using pET-28a-TEV vector and Escherichia coli BL-21 as expression system. When tested in ELISA with human samples, the C9 antigen was the one showing the most promising results, with 68% sensitivity and 78% specificity. When testing canine samples, the C1, C8 and C9 antigens showed a sensitivity range from 70% to 80% and specificity range from 60% to 90%. The C1 antigen presented higher sensitivity (80%) and the C8 antigen presented higher specificity (90%). Due to it, we decided to mix and test C1 and C8 antigens together, resulting in the C18 antigen. The mix also yielded high percentages of detected symptomatic and asymptomatic dogs however it did not improve the performance of the diagnostic. Comparison of our tests with the tests recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health revealed that our antigens' sensitivities and the percentage of detected asymptomatic dogs were much higher. Our results suggest that the C1, C8, C18 and C9 recombinant proteins are good antigens to diagnose canine visceral leishmaniasis and could potentially be used in screening tests. To diagnose human visceral leishmaniasis, the C9 antigen presented reasonable results, but more optimization must be performed for this antigen to provide better performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landscape transformation favors the spread of new pathogens that can be shared between domestic and wild animals. Certain adenoviruses (e.g., canine adenovirus 1 and 2, family Adenoviridae) can infect domestic and wild carnivores. In domestic canids, these viruses are associated with hepatic and respiratory diseases (among others). Nevertheless, information regarding adenovirus pathogenicity and molecular features in wild carnivores is still limited. Herein we surveyed adenovirus in free-ranging carnivores from Brazil. Total DNA was extracted from and subsequently tested by a nested panPCR in spleen and/or lung of 52 carnivores, representing species of the following families: Canidae (n = 4), Felidae (n = 3), Mustelidae (n = 2) and Procyonidae (n = 2). The obtained sequences were compared to others available at GenBank. Available tissue samples from the positive cases were evaluated histopathologically. One out of 52 (1.9%, CI 95%, 0.0–5.7%) carnivores was positive; a roadkilled ocelot (Leopardus pardalis). The obtained sequence presented a low deduced amino acid (78.1%) similarity with the closest adenovirus, identified in a pinniped from the United States of America. This fact and its detection in a novel host suggest it may be representative of a novel species and denominated ocelot adenovirus 1. None of the gross and microscopic findings of the positive case were associated with adenovirus. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of adenovirus in wild felids of South America and the second worldwide. Further studies are necessary to assess the epidemiology and potential pathogenicity of this agent in wild carnivores. [Display omitted] • Landscape transformation favors the spread of new pathogens • Adenovirus surveillance in Canidae, Felidae, Mustelidae and Procyonidae carnivores • Detection of a novel adenovirus in an ocelot, denominated ocelot adenovirus 1 • First report of adenovirus in wild felids of South America and the second worldwide [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Canine rangeliosis, caused by the piroplasmid protozoon Rangelia vitalii, is currently recognized as a reemerging disease that affects domestic dogs in Brazil. In the present study, piroplasmid infection was searched in wild canids (20 Cerdocyon thous and 4 Lycalopex gymnocercus) in Brazil. Molecular analysis, based on PCR and DNA sequencing of a portion of the 18S rRNA gene, revealed that 30% (6/20) C. thous were infected by R. vitalii. Blood and bone marrow samples from one of the R. vitalii-infected C. thous were inoculated into a domestic dog, which developed clinical rangeliosis that was confirmed by molecular tests. However, the C. thous donor showed no clinical, hematological or biochemical alterations, even though its R. vitalii infection status was confirmed for at least 80 days. These observations suggest that R. vitalii is not as highly pathogenic for C. thous as it is for domestic dogs. Phylogenetic analysis inferred by the 18S rRNA gene placed R. vitalii embedded in the clade ‘Babesia sensu stricto’, consisting of a number of species that represent truly the genus Babesia. It is proposed that the species R. vitalii should be transferred to the genus Babesia. The present study expands our knowledge on the natural history of R. vitalii, suggesting that it might have a natural cycle involving the wild canid C. thous. Further studies are needed to confirm that C. thous is a natural reservoir of R. vitalii in Brazil. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To characterize canine coronavirus (CCoV) circulating in diarrheic puppies in Brazil, 250 fecal samples collected between 2006 and 2012 were tested. By using RT-PCR to partially amplify the M gene, CCoV RNA was detected in 30 samples. Sequence analysis of the M protein grouped eight strains with CCoV-I and another 19 with CCoV-II prototypes. To genotype/subtype the CCoV strains and assess the occurrence of single or multiple CCoV infections, RT-PCR of the S gene was performed, and 25/30 CCoV-positive strains amplified with one or two primer pairs. For 17/25 samples, single infections were detected as follows: six CCoV-I, nine CCoV-IIa and two CCoV-IIb. Eight samples were positive for more than one genotype/subtype as follows: seven CCoV-I/IIa and one CCoV-I/IIb. Sequence analysis revealed that the CCoV-I and IIa strains shared high genetic similarity to each other and to the prototypes. The Brazilian strains of CCoV-IIb displayed an aminoacid insertion that was also described in CCoV-IIb-UCD-1 and TGEV strains. Among the 25 CCoV-positive puppies, five had a fatal outcome, all but one of which were cases of mixed infection. The current study is the first reported molecular characterization of CCoV-I, IIa and IIb strains in Brazil. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It has been proposed that the transmission of canine visceral leishmaniasis might involve the participation of mechanical vectors, including ticks of the family Ixodidae, in particular the brown dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis felis. Here, the association between the infestation by R. sanguineus and C. felis felis and the occurrence of anti-Leishmania antibodies was evaluated in an observational case–control study of dogs living in a Brazilian endemic area for canine visceral leishmaniasis. Blood samples were taken once every three months for one year from 96 initially seronegative domestic dogs, and submitted to indirect immunofluorescence antibody assay. All dogs were evaluated for the presence of ticks and fleas, and the results were expressed qualitatively as infested or non-infested, irrespective of the intensity of infestation. At the end of follow-up, twenty dogs had turned seropositive, while 68 remained seronegative and 8 were excluded because of incomplete data. All the dogs were asymptomatic. The odds of infection was significantly greater (OR=3.54, CI95%=1.10–12.53) for dogs infested by C. felis felis compared to their non-infested counterparts. In contrast, the odds of infection showed no significance difference between non-infested and R. sanguineus-infested groups of dogs (OR=0.31, CI95%=0.03–1.52). This study provides further evidence for the potential role of C. felis felis in mechanically transmitting Leishmania among the canine population. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The expansion of urbanization on natural areas is increasing contact between human populations with wild animals. Wild carnivores can act as sentinel hosts or environmental health indicators. Thus, the aim of this work was to investigate the exposure of two major species of wild canids from Southern Brazil to selected pathogens. For that, we live-trapped free-ranging Cerdocyon thous and Lycalopex gymnocercus in five localities and determined the frequency of animals with antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii , Trypanosoma cruzi , Leishmania infantum , Neospora caninum , and Leptospira spp. Among the canids sampled, 23% (12/52) (95%CI: 13–36%) had antibodies against T. gondii , with titers ranging from 64 to 512. For T. cruzi , 28% (15/52) (95%CI: 18–42%) of sampled canids were seropositive, with titers ranging from 8 to 64. Concerning the protozoan pathogen N. caninum , a total of 5% (3/52) (95%CI: 2–15%) of wild canids had antibodies against it. None of the sampled canids showed the presence of antibodies against L. infantum. On the other hand, 44% (23/52) (95%CI: 31–57%) of the wild canids showed antibodies against Leptospira spp. The set of results presented here, show that free-ranging neotropical wild canids are exposed and have antibodies against to T. gondii , T. cruzi , Leptospira spp., and to a lesser degree to N. caninum. We found no evidence of L. infantum circulation among the studied populations. These results highlight some of the major pathogens which may represent risks for populations of these wild canids. The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. • Wild canids are major reservoirs of infectious diseases. • Few studies have addressed pathogens of Lycalopex gymnocercus. • Toxoplasma gondii and Leptospira spp. seem widespread among wild canids. • A third of canids were seropositive for Trypanosoma cruzi. • Neospora caninum seems rare, contrarily to North America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myiasis is one of the main causes of infestation by Diptera larvae in animals and human beings. This parasitic disease is frequently diagnosed at veterinary and medical practices. It is classified according to its anatomical location in the host or to its dependency relations and parasitic occurrence. In Brazil, the two diptera species with the highest myiasis incidence in domestic animals are Cochliomyia hominivorax (Calliphoridae) and Dermatobia hominis (Oestridae). These ectoparasites are primarily found in dogs and secondarily in cats, and they are often associated with omission or mistreatment by the owner. This study describes myiasis cases and the main predisposing factors in domestic animals that occurred in 2009 in the Federal District, Brazil. Materials, Methods & Results: Between January and December 2009, veterinary practitioners from 90 small animal practices were requested to supply the larvae collected from clinical myiasis cases. The larvae were kept alive inside biological containers containing vermiculite to preserve their integrity during transportation. Data on the collection month, age, gender, breed, color and type of coat, as well as lesion site, myiasis type and dwelling type were obtained. The larvae were identified in laboratory and then kept inside incubators, fed on rotten bovine meat during 24h. The resulting flies were again identified and sexed. Then the absolute and relative proportions of the clinical cases were obtained, based on the epidemiological factors and respective parasites. Forty cases were recorded (39 of which were dogs and one was a cat). Cochliomyia hominivorax was the most abundant parasite, with 37 cases observed in dogs and only one in a cat. The other two myiasis cases were caused by Lucilia eximia and Musca domestica. In dogs, the highest occurrence of myiasis was observed in males, especially in German Sheepdogs and Cocker Spaniels. The predominant anatomical sites of the disease in dogs were the front limbs and tail. The period in which the disease occurred most frequently was between March and May, period which corresponds to the rainy season in the Brazilian Cerrado. Dogs living in houses within urban areas had the highest parasitism occurrence. Discussion: Myiasis in companion animals is a common finding throughout practices in Brazil and around the world. However, this situation has been under control in North American countries, especially after erradication of myiases caused by C. hominivorax in bovines, which represented great economic losses. Therefore, the incidence of the parasitism in dogs and cats was reduced. In Brazil, obligatory and facultative cutaneous myiases in dogs and cats are caused by omission and mistreatment by the owner. The results presented in this study corroborate the characteristics of neotropical myiases in the Southeast and South region of Brazil in relation to the incidence period and preferential host characteristics, except that the disease has a preference for male light-colored animals, being predominantly observed on the hind limbs. New cases were observed in dogs, particularly in Central Brazil, such as the facultative cutaneous myiasis cases caused by Lucilia eximia and Musca domestica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Near Threatened maned wolf Chrysocyon brachyurus is a South American endemic canid occurring mainly in grassland-dominated regions. We compiled and mapped recent and historical data to compare the species’ present and historical distributions and propose hypotheses for range shifts. There has been recent range expansion in eastern Brazil associated with the deforestation of the Atlantic Forest and conversion of habitat to grasslands for cattle range. The northern, north-eastern and eastern sectors of the species’ range have not yet experienced significant modifications, and the species persists in central Brazil, northern and eastern Bolivia, and south-eastern Peru. The largest range contractions have occurred at the species’ southern limits but maned wolves are still present in north-eastern, central and eastern Argentina, and there are a few records of the species' occurence from Uruguay and north-eastern and southern Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Historically the species occupied nearly all of Rio Grande do Sul, Uruguay and south to at least the 38th parallel in Argentina. The probable causes of the southern range loss are intense anthropogenic pressure combined with limiting abiotic factors such as temperature and humidity. We highlight the need to revise the view of how habitat modifications are influencing the range of C. brachyurus so as to improve and coordinate range-wide conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: The ecology and reproductive biology of the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) and the pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) were studied in Itapuã State Park, an Atlantic Forest fragment. In this study we describe their activity patterns (diel, lunar, and seasonal), reproductive period, density, spatial distribution, and habitat overlap. The crab-eating fox was more abundant than the pampas fox, occurring in all types of habitats and overlapping with the pampas fox only in the southern portion of the study area, covered by open vegetation. Both canid species presented nocturnal habits and C. thous showed no significant differences in activity among lunar phases or else year season. The density of C. thous was estimated to be 0.78ind/km2. The crab-eating fox reproduced once a year, generating pups during spring (October to December). In comparison with C. thous populations from lower-latitude regions the relatively low density and one reproductive event per year that we observed are probably related to a colder climate, shorter photoperiod, and shortage of food resources in the winter, characteristic of southern Brazil. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Rabies in wild canids in Northeastern Brazil is frequent and has been reported for some time, with episodes of rabies transmission from these animals to humans also reported. In this study, we analyzed the antigenic and genetic profiles of the rabies virus nucleoprotein gene, isolated from 20 samples taken from domestic animals and wild canids located in the Northeastern region of Brazil. All viruses isolated from domestic animals (dogs and cats) belonged to the antigenic variant 2 (AgV2). Among the wild animal samples, only four were AgV2, and nine showed a divergent antigenic profile. Phylogenetic analysis revealed two Brazilian clusters. Cluster 1 (Brazilian domestic carnivore-related strains) showed two subclusters, called 1A and 1B, and cluster 2 (Brazilian wild canid-related strains) also showed two subclusters, called 2A and 2B. The majority of the samples with divergent antigenic strains segregated into subcluster 2A. The intracluster identity of cluster 1 was 95.6% and that of cluster 2, 92.4%. When clusters 1 and 2 were compared, an identity of 88.6% was found. The genetic analysis of wild canid samples performed in this study indicates that there are two distinct rabies cycles among canids in Brazil, one represented by domestic canids and the other by wild canids. This study shows that the virus samples isolated in Northeastern Brazil are region and species-specific. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Investigates the food items consumed by sympatric manned wolves, crab-eating foxes and haory foxes in the Cerrado biome of central Brazil to determine overlap among their diets. Home ranges and spatial segregation among the canids; Determination of the importance of each food item through relative frequency; Habitat use by the canids.

Crab-eating (Cerdocyon thous) and Pampas foxes (Lycalopex gymnocercus) are wild canids distributed in South America. Domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and wild canids may share viral pathogens, including rabies virus (RABV), canine distemper virus (CDV), and canine parvovirus 2 (CPV-2). To characterize the virome of these wild canid species, the present work evaluated the spleen and mesenteric lymph node virome of 17 crab-eating and five Pampas foxes using high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Organ samples were pooled and sequenced using an Illumina MiSeq platform. Additional PCR analyses were performed to identify the frequencies and host origin for each virus detected by HTS. Sequences more closely related to the Paramyxoviridae , Parvoviridae and Anelloviridae families were detected, as well as circular Rep-encoding single-stranded (CRESS) DNA viruses. CDV was found only in crab-eating foxes, whereas CPV-2 was found in both canid species; both viruses were closely related to sequences reported in domestic dogs from southern Brazil. Moreover, the present work reported the detection of canine bocavirus (CBoV) strains that were genetically divergent from CBoV-1 and 2 lineages. Finally, we also characterized CRESS DNA viruses and anelloviruses with marked diversity. The results of this study contribute to the body of knowledge regarding wild canid viruses that can potentially be shared with domestic canids or other species. • Virome analysis in organs of wild canids was performed using high throughput sequencing • CDV, CPV-2, bocaparvovirus, anelloviruses and other circular viruses were found • CDV and CPV-2 found were closely related to the reported in domestic dogs from the same Brazilian region • The bocaparvovirus found is a putative new genus was only reported in domestic dogs from the United States and China • It was suggested that novel anelloviruses of marked diversity can be found in wild canids [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a research that investigates the evolution and origin of Canine transmissible venereal tumour (CTVT) in Brazil and Australia. Researchers did a genomic analysis to refine the evolution and origin of CTVT. Moreover, by using mutation signature, they discovered that the age of CTVT is approximately 200 to 70,000 years old.