Prevalence and risk factors for colonization of Campylobacter spp. in household dogs in Metro Manila, Philippines

Campylobacter is one of the four leading causes of diarrheal diseases worldwide, with the number of cases surpassing those of salmonellosis and shigellosis. Contact with companion animals such as cats and dogs has been implicated in human infections. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for Campylobacter spp. colonization among household dogs in Metro Manila, Philippines. Faecal samples were collected from 195 dogs and processed using selective enrichment. Campylobacter spp. were detected and identified through PCR amplification of genus-and species-specific genes. The overall prevalence of Campylobacter spp. was 9.74% (19/195), with C. upsaliensis as the predominant species with a prevalence of 7.2% (14/195), followed by C. jejuni at 2.05% (4/195). Both C. upsaliensis and C. jejuni were observed in 15.8% (3/19) of samples positive for Campylobacter spp. Furthermore, Campylobacter colonization in dogs was associated with the gender of the dog owner and presence of other pets in the household. These results reinforce the need for good hygiene practices when handling dogs in order to reduce the possibility of acquiring campylobacteriosis resulting from pet interactions.