Sanitary analysis of compost of canine origin: pilot study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the sanitary quality of compost derived from canine origin through parasitological, bacteriological, biochemical, and molecular analyses, focusing on the detection of enteropathogens relevant to public health.

Design/methodology/approach: Samples of canine-origin compost (carcass) underwent parasitological analyses, bacteriological culture, biochemical characterization, and molecular testing for pathogens such as Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Salmonella spp. Additionally, 16S rRNA sequencing was performed for species-level identification.

Results: No parasite structures were found. Molecular tests for E. coli and Salmonella spp. were negative. Colonies suggestive of Salmonella arizonae were isolated. Subsequent 16S rRNA analysis revealed homology with Citrobacter arsenatis, a recently described bacterium.

Limitations on study/implications: The study was limited to a single compost source and focused on a few bacterial pathogens; broader microbiome analysis and pathogenicity assessments are recommended.

Findings/conclusions: Canine compost does not appear to pose a significant public health risk regarding the presence of enteropathogens such as Escherichia coli pathotype ETEC and Salmonella, according to our analyses, However, as it is compost derived from dog carcasses it may contain opportunistic or pathogenic microorganisms. Additionally, the pathogenicity of Citrobacter arsenatis is still unknown.