Objective:

to determine the frequency of dirofilariosis in canines from locality 3 of Cartagena city.

Materials and methods:

cross-sectional correlational study. Blood samples were taken for 128 dogs prior informed consent by their owners. Sociodemographic information and symptoms were registered. The samples have been analyzed using direct examination, Wright stained blood smear and Knott technique.

Results:

it was established that 19.5% of dogs were parasitized by Dirofilaria sp. Most common signs suggestive of Dirofilariosis were weight loss, and decreased appetite (10.9% each). 76% were mixed race dogs.

Conclusions:

the frequency of dirofilariosis focused on lower income neighborhoods. The identified symptoms are suggestive of canine dirofilariasis.