Prevalence of Geohelminth Parasites of Horses in Dutsinma Metropolis, Katsina State Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of geohelminth parasites of horses in Dutsinma metropolis between May to August, 2016. Fresh fecal sample were obtained from the rectum of 48 randomly selected horses. A floatation technique was used for the lab work experiment. From the result, out of the total sample collected 6 (12.50%) were positive with eggs of two parasites Strongyles and Oxyuris spp with the prevalence of (6.25%) for each. Among the three points of sample collection, the highest prevalence was recorded at Kadangaru (20.00%) followed by Unguwa Yandaka (18.18%) and no case recorded at Hayingada. X2 cal = 36.84 at P=0.05 and 2df. The highest prevalence was recorded among the males (18.52%) while only 1 female was affected with the prevalence of (4.76%) X2 cal = 36.57 at P=0.05 and 2df. Prevalence was recorded in adult of 14.29% while young horses recorded a prevalence of 10.00%, X2 cal = 36.84 at P=0.05 Strongyles and Oxyuris spp were recognized as important geohelminth parasites in Horses in Dutsinma Local Goverment Area of Katsina State with various rates of infection (12.50%). Managerial control tools should be integrated to improve prevention of geohelminth parasites by communication, information and health education.