SUMMARYGiardiaspp. is a common gastrointestinal (GI) parasite of multiple host species, including dogs and humans, with the potential for zoonotic transmission. The risk of GI parasitism in dogs (includingGiardiaspp.) may increase with park use in urban areas. This study aimed to (1) determine whether park attendance is a risk factor forGiardiaspp. infection in dogs and (2) characterize the behavioural and demographic risk factors forGiardiaspp. infection in park-attending and non-park-attending dogs. From August to September 2012, a total of 1293 dog owners completed a survey and 860 corresponding dog faecal samples were collected. Dog faeces were screened forGiardiaspp. using a direct immunofluorescence assay and associations assessed among behaviours, demographics, andGiardiaspp. infection. Main results included off-leash and swimming frequencies within parks as significantly positively associated withGiardiaspp. infection in dogs. Dog-owner age was negatively associated with off-leash and swimming frequencies in parks. The results suggest some recreational behaviours in parks and certain demographics are risk factors for parasitism in pet dogs.
Urban park-related risks forGiardiaspp. infection in dogs
