Vector-Borne Pathogens in Ticks and Fleas of Client-Owned Dogs in Metro Manila, Philippines

Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. and Ctenocephalides felis are considered the most prevalent ectoparasites of dogs in the Philippines. Vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in these ectoparasites pose health risks to humans and animals. This study aimed to confirm the morphological and molecular identity of tick and flea species parasitising dogs in Metro Manila (Philippines) and molecularly investigate the possible presence of Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., Ehrlichia canis, and Anaplasma platys DNA. Ticks (n = 58) and fleas (n = 52) on dogs from three veterinary clinics in Metro Manila were collected and identified morphologically and molecularly via amplification and sequencing of cytochrome c oxidase I (cox1). Aliquots of ectoparasite DNA underwent real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) screening for VBPs. All ticks were R. linnaei (formerly R. sanguineus s.l. “tropical lineage”), while all fleas were C. felis from clade 6 of the tropical II cluster/“Cairns” clade known from Australia. DNA of B. clarridgeiae was detected in 10% of fleas. DNA of R. felis was detected in 10% of fleas and in 3.8% of ticks. DNA of E. canis and A. platys was not detected. This study confirmed the presence of ticks and fleas as frequent ectoparasites on dogs and VBP presence emphasises the importance of preventative actions for animal health and welfare.