Accurate and timely diagnosis of canine hepatozoonosis is essential to managing the severe welfare impacts of this tick-borne disease, but diagnosis can be challenging.
The diagnostic process for hepatozoonosis — particularly H. americanum — can be prolonged and invasive, adding to animal welfare burden. Muscle biopsy under anaesthesia is required when less invasive tests are inconclusive. Once diagnosed, treatment reduces but does not eliminate the parasite burden, with relapses common. Dogs on maintenance decoquinate treatment may remain functional for years, but disease progression is inevitable in most cases. Quality of life monitoring, pain management, and honest prognostic discussions with owners are essential components of welfare-centred care.