Veterinary problems of maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) kept in captivity

Abstract

Manned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) (Carnivora, Canidae) are animals of important biological value due to the fact that this species is a highly endangered one, mainly because of the systematic destruction of its habitat. When in captivity, they present difficulty in breeding; in management and in the care of offspring because of management deficiencies and disease problems. This is a report of a 30-year retrospective study of 100 animals, young (20) and adults (80) kept in the São Paulo zoo. These animals presented 111 pathological conditions: 62% were of gastrointestinal origin; 13,6% of traumatic origin; 8,2% respiratory problems; 8,2% urinary problems and 4,5% circulatory problems, besides some isolated cases. The most common clinical signs were related to gastrointestinal conditions: vomit, diarrhoea, anorexia and prostration. The main bacterial diseases were: leptospirosis, salmonellosis and colibacilosis. In this study it is described the first parvovirosis outbreak report in Brazil involving manned wolves, which killed 11of the 17 affected animals. Among parasites isolated, the most prevalent were: Ancylostoma sp, Trichuris sp and coccidia. There were six cases of renal parasites Dictophyme renale. Traumatic conditions were mainly related to parent infantofagia. When dealing with manned wolves in captivity special care must be taken in order to avoid gastrointestinal problem, which may present several different etiologies: viruses, bacteria, parasites, alimentary problems, and captivity stress. In order to achieve adequate reproduction and management of this species it is necessary to provide animals with a calm and adequate environment and an effective preventive medicine program.