Endoscopic Recognition and Management of Trichuris vulpis Induced Colitis in Three Dogs: A Case Report

Trichuris vulpis is a relatively common cause of canine large bowel disease leading to chronic diarrhea. Faecal analysis is negative most of the times due to long prepatent period and eggs may be shed intermittently. This case study done at Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India from 2014 to 2018 describes the usefulness of endoscopy in diagnosing the colitis due to presence of T. vulpis worms. Three dogs presented with haematochezia and tenesmus were subjected to detailed clinical examination. As the faecal examination was negative and there was no improvement on initial therapy endoscopy was performed. Numerous T. vulpis whipworms were found attached to the colon mucosa on endoscopic examination. Multiple bleeding ulcerated sites were observed throughout the colon. The dog was treated with oral febental, praziquantal and pyrantal combination tablets (Drontal Plus). Clinical improvement was observed within a week.