Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever - Dog Population Survey and Prevention Efforts

A dog population survey was conducted on two southwestern reservations to determine the number of dogs and identify how specific factors among the dog population are contributing to the spread of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF).  The tick responsible for transmission of RMSF in the southwest is the brown dog tick, which is found on dogs and around homes.  A large population of free-roaming dogs combined with a widespread infestation of ticks on reservation lands has adversely impacted the health status of tribal members.  Dogs bring ticks in close contact with people, and free roaming and stray dogs are contributing to the extensive distribution of ticks in homes and yards.  The survey found that the number of dogs per household was comparable to the national average, however results revealed there was a greater percentage of free roaming dogs on the reservations.  The presentation will describe how information gathered from the dog population survey is assisting health officials to improve control measures and reduce the risk of RMSF.