Parvovirus enteritis in Nigerian dogs: A systematic review (2009–2025) and a six-year retrospective cohort in the Veterinary teaching hospital, University of Ibadan

Abstract

Abstract Canine parvovirus (CPV) enteritis remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality among dogs in Nigeria. This study combined a systematic review (2009–2025) with a six-year retrospective cohort analysis of 415 laboratory-confirmed cases from the University of Ibadan Veterinary Teaching Hospital (2018–2024) to identify risk factors and quantify vaccination impact. Literature retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and AJOL highlighted young age (<24 weeks), incomplete vaccination, breed predisposition (notably Boerboels and German Shepherds), and environmental exposure as key risk factors. Retrospective data showed a near-balanced sex ratio (52.1% female) and a mean age of 21.44 ± 22.77 weeks. Vaccination markedly improved survival (76.6% vs. 49.6%; χ² = 33.95, p < 0.001), with the strongest benefit in Boerboels (93.3% vs. 46.2%; p = 0.002) and in dogs exhibiting >2 clinical signs (76.0% vs. 44.1%; χ² = 16.39, p = 0.003). Literature evidence associated vaccine failures with poor handling and maternally derived antibody interference. Overall, vaccination conferred a significant survival advantage across breeds and severity categories. Strengthening early diagnosis, optimizing vaccine storage and administration, and ensuring completion of immunization schedules are essential to mitigate the persistent CPV burden in Nigerian dog populations.