Aberystwyth University launches study on farm dogs and hydatid disease in Wales

Aberystwyth University is initiating a field study across mid‑Wales to examine how everyday interactions between people and farm dogs may facilitate the spread of the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus, which causes hydatid disease in livestock and humans. The parasite uses dogs as the final host and sheep as the intermediate host; humans can become accidental hosts, facing serious health complications.

Researchers led by Dr Keira Washtell will fit GPS collars to free‑roaming farm dogs and analyse faecal samples to understand canine movement, diet and the potential for contaminating pasture. The project will involve farmers, veterinarians, public‑health experts and dog‑owner groups to identify why past public‑health messaging has had limited success. Dr Gwenllian Rees added that the disease, though rare, is re‑emerging in the region and poses a real concern for livestock‑farming communities.

The aim is to develop locally informed strategies to reduce zoonotic transmission of hydatid disease. The study is part of the OneZoo UK‑wide doctoral training programme and is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).