Date of Publication

4-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Medical Biology

Subject Categories

Veterinary Medicine

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Advisor

Frances C. Recuenco

Defense Panel Chair

Priscilla Hope P. Swann

Defense Panel Member

Eligio Santiago V. Maghirang
Jennifer Maries G. Yap

Abstract/Summary

Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by Babesia species, primarily transmitted by the bite of Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick). This research study aimed to determine the number of cases within the selected veterinary clinics across different specific cities of Metro Manila, dating from June 2023 to June 2024, and to determine the various factors influencing the disease occurrence such as dog characteristics, diagnostic tools, and treatment strategies. A retrospective data collection was performed through interviews and surveys from veterinarians concerning their clinical records. Overall, there were 14 clinics who participated in the study; however, 8 of those were able to give an estimated number only. The remaining 6 clinics who gave an absolute number reported a total number of 227 cases encountered from June 2023 to June 2024. The survey found that cases peaked during the dry season of the country from March to May, aligning with increased tick activity affected by higher temperatures and humidity. From the survey results, long-haired dog breeds were more frequently affected, alongside male and adult dogs; thus, suggesting a link between behavioral, physiological, and environmental factors. In terms of diagnosis and treatment, the surveyed veterinary practitioners rely mainly on rapid serological test kits while treatment approaches can be varied based on the severity of the case. According to the survey, the most prescribed drugs were imidocarb and doxycycline, followed by combination therapies administering clindamycin and metronidazole for severe cases. Survey reports of observed potential drug resistance and reoccurrence, particularly in doxycycline and metronidazole, emphasize the need for standardized diagnostic and treatment protocols. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of post-treatment monitoring, improved data storage and case tracking, as well as further research into drug efficacy, sex-based susceptibility, diagnostic accuracy, and disease prevalence to enhance disease management and prevention strategies.

Keywords: canine babesiosis, Babesia, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Metro Manila, veterinary medicine

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Keywords

Babesiosis--Philippines--Metro Manila; Tick-borne diseases in animals; Dogs—Diseases; Veterinary hospitals--Philippines--Metro Manila

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Embargo Period

4-13-2026

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Available for download on Monday, April 13, 2026

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