High Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Dog Shelters in the Balkans

Research from the University of Prishtina has revealed a high frequency of gastrointestinal parasites in dog shelters in the Balkans, with hookworms being the most common. The study, which included faecal samples from 72% adult dogs and 28% puppies in two private shelters in Pristina, Kosovo, found that 88% of dogs were infected with at least one parasite. The presence of benzimidazole-resistant parasites was detected in only 18% of samples, highlighting the need for further research into the distribution of hookworms in Europe.

Key Takeaways:

• The study found that 88% of dogs in two private shelters in Pristina, Kosovo, were infected with at least one parasite, with hookworms being the most common.
• The prevalence of hookworms in dog shelters in the Balkans is a concern, with the emergence of benzimidazole resistance on other continents.
• The study highlights the need for further research into the distribution of hookworms in Europe, particularly in dog shelters where co-infections are common.
• Benzimidazole-resistant parasites were detected in only 18% of samples, suggesting that the use of anti-parasitic medications may be effective in controlling the spread of hookworms.
• The study underscores the importance of monitoring and managing parasitic infections in dog shelters, particularly in the Balkans where the frequency of detection of hookworms is high.
• The research also highlights the challenges of translocating parasitic infections with rehomed dogs, and the need for effective strategies to prevent the spread of parasites.

Statistics:

• 88% of dogs in the two private shelters were infected with at least one parasite.
• Hookworms were the most common parasite detected in the study (68% of samples).
• Co-infections were identified in 48% of the samples.
• Benzimidazole-resistant parasites were detected in only 18% of samples.
• The frequency of detection of hookworms emphasizes the need for further research into the distribution of hookworms in Europe.

Sources:

• University of Prishtina. Uncinaria stenocephala (northern hookworm) is the major endoparasite in dogs from private dog shelters in the Balkans: presence of benzimidazole susceptible isotype-1 b-tubulin alleles. Parasitology, 2025:1-10.
• Life Science Weekly. Data from University of Prishtina Advance Knowledge in Nerve Tissue Proteins [Uncinaria stenocephala (northern hookworm) is the major endoparasite in dogs from private dog shelters in the Balkans: presence of benzimidazole susceptible isotype-1 ...]. November 4, 2025; p 390.