Protozoal Infections
1. BABESIASIS
THIS VECTOR-BORNE DISEASE is also known as biliary fever and malignant jaundice.
ETIOLOGY. B. Canis is the commonest of the various species of babesia which are implicated. The disease is transmitted
by a dog tick which acts as intermediate host.
CLINICAL SIGNS. There may be an incubation period up to 4 or 5 weeks which is followed by a rise in temperature with
increased heart and respiration rates. Anaemia becomes progresively apparent, shown in the pallor of visible mucous
membranes. Anorexia and depression set in along with symptoms of jaundice implying liver involvement which in turn
leads to ascites.
TREATMENT. The chief remedies to be considered are as follows:
1. ACONITUM 12x. For the early feverish state and should be given as early as possible.
2. CROTALUS HORR. 30c. Probably the most important remedy to be considered in bilious states with haemorrhagic com-
plications. The presence of icteric changes will further determine its use. It may have to be given frequently during any
acute phase.
3. PHOSPHORUS 30c. This is another useful remedy to consider in milder cases. It also has a beneficial action on the liver
and will control the tendency to small haemorrhages
4. CHINA OFFICINALIS 30c. Possesses the power of restoring loss of body-fluid, and should always be used in conjunction
with other remedies.
5. TRINITROTOLUENE 30c. This substance in the crude state possesses the ability to destroy red blood cells with the
attendant loss of haemoglobin. It should therefore be considered in biliary fever as its symptom picture covers many of the
manifestations of this disease.
2. TOXOPLASMOSIS
This disease is caused by a protozoan organism called Toxoplasma gondii which becomes intracellular causing a pneumo-
nia-like disease with abdominal and central nervous system complications.
CLINICAL SIGNS. These vary according to the tissues or organs involved and the age of the affected animal, pups showing
more severe symptoms than older dogs. The initial febrile stage ushers in pneumonia with coughing Discharges of muco-
purulent material may be seen from both the nose and eyes. An abdominal form also occurs producing gastro-enteritis,
the animal resenting pressure over the stomach area. The central nervous system is commonly affected producing signs
of inco-ordination, fits and various degrees of paralysis. The ocular discharges are dependent on lesions such as iritis and
keratitis.
TREATMENT
1. ACONITUM 12x. Should be given at the first signs of febrile disturbance.
2. PHOSPHORUS 30c. One of the main remedies to be considered in pneumonia, the animal showing nasal discharge which
may be rust-coloured. If thirst is present vomiting takes place when the stomach contents become warm after drinking.
3. ARSENICUM ALB IM. The best remedy for the gastro-intestinal form. The coat will be harsh and dry and the animal
usually seeks warmth, symptoms being worse towards midnight.
4. MERC. CORR. 30c. A good remedy for the treatment of eye conditions showing muco-purulent discharges. There may
also be slimy, blood-stained diarrhoea.
5. BELLADONNA IM. Probably the most useful remedy for animals which develop fits.
6. CONIUM 30c. If signs of paresis or early paralysis in the hindquarters develop, this remedy is indicated.
7. STRYCHNINUM 200c. Muscular twitchings and St. Vitus Dance will be helped by this remedy.