CANINE BABESIOSIS (BABESIA-CANIS)

Canine babesiasis, caused by Babesia canis, is a haemoprotozoal infection often seen in France. Its common geographical distribution is linked to that of its principal vector Dermacentor reticulatus. However, the proliferation of a second vector Rhipicephalus sanguineus, associated with houses and groups of dogs, has caused the area affected by this disease and the period of risk during the year to be increased, thus creating worrying loci of urban infection. The main aspects concerning the biology of the parasite, clinical and immunopathological studies, diagnostic methods and the means by which to fight the disease (including immunization) are discussed.