Canine Ehrlichiosis in a Two-Year-Old Dog: A Clinical Case Report

Canine ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne haemoparasitic disease caused by Ehrlichia canis and transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus. It is a significant pathogen in Nigeria, affecting dogs and posing zoonotic risks. A two-year-old female Eskimo dog weighing 5 kg was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, with a chief complaint of anorexia and weight loss. The clinical examination revealed a mild fever (39.5°C), pale mucous membranes, and asthenia. Giemsa-stained blood smears showed cytoplasmic morulae of E. canis within monocytes, confirming the diagnosis. The dog was administered oxytetracycline 5% (10 mg/kg IV q24h for 5 days), vitamin B-complex (1 mL/5 kg IM q24h for 5 days), and ivermectin (0.5 mg/kg SC single dose). The appetite and weight improved within three days; full recovery was achieved by two weeks post-treatment. This case highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment of E. canis infection in endemic regions, as well as the need for regular tick control, and owner vigilance to prevent occurrence and recurrence of disease.