Zoonotic Parasites of Sheltered and Stray Dogs in the Era of the Global Economic and Political Crisis

Sheltered and stray dogs, exposed to zoonotic parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and arthropods, may represent a major threat to public health. Resources for addressing health problems in these animals are not on the priority list of veterinary and public health authorities. Thus, dogs continue to represent an important reservoir for zoonotic parasites. In this article, we review the importance of sheltered and stray dogs as reservoirs of zoonotic parasites in different parts of the world, especially in the context of the current global political and economic crisis. Sheltered and stray dogs represent reservoirs of zoonotic parasites worldwide, especially in the context of the current global changes and economic crisis. Stray dog populations are an underestimated problem in several countries, and management policies are virtually nonexistent, or not applied, particularly in developing nations. Relocation of stray dogs from southern to northern countries of Europe has contributed to the establishment of parasites and/or their vectors in previously nonendemic areas. Poverty and low public health standards may further worsen the welfare of dogs in developing and industrialized countries.