الملخص

Toxocara canis is a zoonotic helminth parasite that primarily infects dogs and poses a significant risk to human health. This study was conducted to perform a traditional microscopic diagnosis of T. canis in dogs within Babylon Province, Iraq, between October 2025 and January 2026. A total of 75 fecal samples were randomly collected and examined using direct wet smear, flotation, and sedimentation techniques. The overall infection rate was found to be 24% (18/75). Puppies showed a higher infection rate (34.28%) compared to adults (15%), and females recorded a higher prevalence (29.72%) than males (18.42%), although these differences were not statistically significant. Geographically, the highest prevalence was observed in Al-Kifl (40%). The study highlights the need for regular deworming programs to mitigate zoonotic risks.