Emerging Parasites in Dogs in the Southwestern United States

Many parasites have been recently emerging as issues in veterinary medicine and public health. Among these, some are zoonotic, meaning that these can also infect humans. The biology, epidemiology and clinical relevance of selected emerging parasites will be discussed. Emphasis will be given to two helminth parasites: Onchocerca lupi, the agent of canine ocular onchocercosis, and Heterobilharzia americana, the agent of canine schistosomiasis. Relevant diagnostic methods, prevention and treatment recommendations will be outlined. Current knowledge gaps will be examined.