Management of respiratory syndrome associated with a mixed infection of Babesia canis, Babesia gibsoni and Ehrlichia canis in a Great Dane Pup

An unusual case of respiratory distress associated with co-infection of Babesia canis and Babesia gibsoni concurrent with Ehrlichia canis in a two month Great Dane pup is reported with its successful treatment. Signs of lower respiratory tract involvement were also associated with anaemia, distended abdomen and anorexia. Radiograph confirmed diffuse lung disease. Peripheral blood cytology revealed a mixed infection of B. canis, B. gibsoni and E. canis. Coinfection of B. canis and B. gibsoni in this pup was a surprising and interesting finding as such coinfection of Babesia sp. have not been reported so far. Recovery was uneventful with babesicidals and anti rickettsial drugs along with supportive therapy.