Uncomplicated canine babesiosis without prophylaxis: Case report and retrospective analysis

Canine babesiosis is a serious disease caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa of the genus Babesia, most commonly Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni. A four-year-old male Yorkshire Terrier was presented to a private veterinary clinic with anorexia, fever, weakness, vomiting, and hematuria. Microscopic examination of peripheral blood revealed the presence of Babesia canis. Further laboratory findings indicated marked thrombocytopenia and elevated total bilirubin levels, suggesting a severe clinical course potentially associated with hematopoietic dysfunction. The aim of this study was to describe a clinical case of uncomplicated babesiosis in a dog without a history of prophylactic antiparasitic treatment and to compare the findings with data from a retrospective group of ten dogs that had been diagnosed with babesiosis. Based on our findings, we strongly recommend the regular administration of antiparasitic supplements to prevent Babesia spp. infections, thereby minimizing animal suffering and reducing treatment costs.