HAEMATOLOGICAL CHANGES OF NIGERIAN INDIGENOUS DOGS AFTER 24 HOUR WATER DEPRIVATION AND RESTORATION

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 24 h water deprivation and restoration on haematology parameters of dogs in confinement. A total of 10 Nigerian Indigenous dogs weighing 5- 10 kg were used for the experiment. Blood samples were taken to evaluate complete blood count from the dogs after 24 h water deprivation and 24 h water restoration. The results obtained showed significant difference (P<0.05) in the hematological parameters (MCV, HCT, MCHC, Lymphocytes and Granulocytes counts) during dehydration. The higher erythrocyte parameters obtained during the deprivation showed that there was haemo-concentration which might lead to dehydration eventually over a long period of time. Water is essential in normal body function and metabolism, therefore it should be given to dogs without restriction.