Creole Dogs From Cape Verde - A Molecular Study Regarding Their Vector-Borne Pathogens

Objectives: To date, limited data are available on vector-borne pathogens in dogs from São Vicente Island, Cape Verde. This study aimed to morphologically characterise such a population of stray dogs and their ectoparasites, and to molecularly identify vector-borne pathogens, at the species level.   Material and Methods: During a trap-neuter-return campaign (2024), blood samples (for clinical purposes) and ectoparasites were collected from 20 dogs, as well as their clinical history and photographic record. Ectoparasites were morphologically identified by microscopy using dichotomous taxonomic keys. DNA was extracted from blood and ectoparasites, followed by molecular screening for Anaplasma/Ehrlichia spp., Bartonella spp., Borrelia spp., and Rickettsia spp. by PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.    Results: Ectoparasites were detected in 80.0% of dogs. A total of 47 ectoparasites were collected, namely 38 hard ticks (Rhipicephalus spp.), five fleas (one Echidnophaga gallinacea and four Ctenocephalides felis), and four lice (Heterodoxus spiniger). Molecular screening detected the presence of Rickettsia spp. in 26.3% ticks and 100% of fleas, Anaplasma/Ehrlichia spp. in 13.2% ticks, Hepatozoon spp. in 42.1% ticks and Borrelia spp. in 5.3% ticks. Additionally, Anaplasma/Ehrlichia spp. and Hepatozoon spp., were detected in the blood of 45.0% and 80.0% of the dogs, respectively.  So far, sequence data have allowed the identification of Rickettsia asembonensis and Borrelia bavariensis, both reported for the first time in Cape Verde. Hepatozoon canis was first reported for the São Vicente island.    Conclusions: This study provides new molecular data on ectoparasites and vector-borne pathogens in stray dogs from São Vicente island. Preliminary results indicate the presence of potentially zoonotic agents, such as R. asembonensis and B. bavariensis. These findings highlight the importance of continued surveillance and support the implementation of integrated One Health strategies to monitor and control emerging vector-borne pathogens.   Keywords: Vector-borne pathogens; stray dogs; São Vicente island; Rickettsia; Borrelia; zoonosis    Acknowledgments/Funding: I-MVET funded this work under the strategic “Creole dogs” project. We thank “Animais de Rua” and “Simabô” NGOs for all the help in collecting samples from stray dogs from Cape Verde - São Vicente Island, during March 2024´s neutering campaign, and to Helena Palma and Inês B. Pires, students at FMV-UL, for preparing the registry sheet and collection material. Revista Lusófona de Ciência e Medicina Veterinária, v. 20 (2026): IV Encontro de Investigação da FMV da Universidade Lusófona- Edição Especial