Clinical and Epidemiological Aspect of Canine Gastroenteritis in Lubumbashi, DR Congo

Introduction: Gastroenteritis is a disease known for its high morbidity and mortality in dogs. It shows wide variations in causes and prevalence throughout the world. No study in Lubumbashi has mentioned it to date. Purpose: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to provide veterinary clinicians in Lubumbashi with data on the prevalence, seasonality associated with canine gastroenteritis and to assess the clinical diagnostic capacity of veterinary clinicians in the city of Lubumbashi. Methodology: The retrospective 5-year clinical records of 762 dogs were consulted where only 455 clinical cases had completed records. These clinical records were collected from 14 veterinary practices and 4 veterinary clinics. A pre-populated survey form was distributed to all veterinary practices and clinics that did not complete clinical records during the study period. Results: The prevalence of canine gastroenteritis was 47.5% [(95% CI):44.5-53.3] of ill dogs. This prevalence was influenced by vaccination status, breed, age and period of year (p<0.05). The sex did not show any influence (p>0.05). The highest prevalence was found in dogs between 0 and 6 months of age (80%). The most prevalent month was July, corresponding to the peak of the dry season in Lubumbashi. On the other hand, the least prevalent month was February, corresponding to the peak of the rainy season. Dogs in all communes were affected with the highest prevalence in the Commune of Lubumbashi 43.1% [(95% CI): 36.4-49.6] followed by the Annex commune 47 cases or 21.7% [(95% CI): 16.2-27.2]. During clinical consultations, three gastrointestinal diseases were suspected, including canine parvovirus enteritis, helminthiasis and non-specific gastroenteritis. Unique contribution to theory and practice: This study was the first to record epidemiological data on canine gastroenteritis treated in veterinary practices and clinics in the city of Lubumbashi. It is therefore part of the objective to improve the epidemiological and clinical knowledge of canine gastrointestinal pathologies. Based on these results, the authors recommend to the dog breeders of Lubumbashi on the usefulness of vaccination and deworming of dogs especially during the dry season and to the veterinarians, rational management of the clinical records of the patients while encouraging them to practice autopsy and paraclinical examinations.