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Emerging Disease Affects Donkeys By Kentucky Equine Research Staff · May 29, 2012
Donkeys in at least nine states have been diagnosed with besnoitiosis, a disease caused by a protozoan parasite related to Sarcocystis and other organisms known to cause illness in horses.
Though some infected donkeys show no signs, others develop multiple small cysts on the face, ears, nostrils, sclera of the eye, and other body regions including the pharynx and larynx. Other signs are weight loss, crusty skin lesions, and poor coat condition with possible hair loss.
Treatments that have been used to fight other protozoal diseases have not been effective against besnoitiosis.
Owners of donkeys can consult a veterinarian about having their animals tested for this disease. Researchers at Cornell University are asking for help in finding affected donkeys that can participate in treatment trials.
To get more information about the studies, contact Dr. Sallyann Ness at san56@cornell.edu or call 607-253-3100.
