Ehrlichia infection in a two-year-old Boerboel dog

Abstract

This paper reports a case of Ehrlichia species infection in a Boerboel dog. The 2-year-old dog weighing 39 kg was presented on 4^th September 2024 at Critters Veterinary Centre, Lekki, Lagos with lethargy, decreased appetite, and weight loss. Physical examination revealed pale ocular mucous membrane, poor skin rebound, sunken eyes, dry hair coat, ticks on the ears and emaciation. Clinical examination showed a temperature of 40.2°C, pulse rate and respiratory rate were 97 beats per minute and 39 cycles per minute, respectively. Haematological analysis revealed anaemia, thrombocytopenia, neutrophilia and monocytosis. Serum biochemical results revealed slightly elevated aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyl-transferase levels. The total protein level was high due to an elevated globulin level. Thin blood smear microscopy and specific chromatographic Ehrlichia canis test showed infection with Ehrlichia spp.  The dog was on the first day placed on 500 ml of 5% dextrose saline IV once for 4 hours, piroxicam was administered at 0.3mg/kg (0.015ml/kg) IV stat, multivitamin was also administered at 1ml/10kg IM stat. 10% oxytetracycline was given IV at 10mg/kg (1ml/10kg) for 5 days. The client was then given doxycycline capsules to administer to the dog orally at a dose of 10mg/kg (1 capsule/10kg) orally once daily for 28 days. Clinical improvement was observed 24 hours after the commencement of oxytetracycline therapy, with complete recovery by the end of treatment. Early diagnosis and effective treatment is very important in the management of ehrlichiosis in dogs, as relapse may occur if treatment is not followed carefully during the recommended timeframe.