About us

Chagas disease is a potentially life-threatening illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which is transmitted through the bite or feces of triatomine bugs (also known as “kissing bugs”). In dogs, the disease can cause both acute and chronic symptoms, including fever, lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, and heart abnormalities such as arrhythmias or heart failure. Over time, infected dogs may develop severe cardiac or gastrointestinal complications. Since symptoms can be non-specific or delayed, early detection and preventive strategies—such as vector control and regular veterinary screenings—are essential to protecting canine health.

At African Canine Health Consult, we specialize in using science-based strategies to tackle zoonotic diseases—those that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Through mathematical disease modeling, we analyze how diseases spread between vectors, animals, and people, providing valuable insights to inform public health decisions. We also design disease surveillance programs and conduct targeted training for veterinary professionals and dog owners. Our approach supports the global “One Health” movement, recognizing that the health of animals, humans, and the environment are interconnected, and must be addressed together to prevent outbreaks and protect communities.

Our training programs are open to a wide range of individuals involved in canine care and public health, including licensed veterinarians, veterinary students, animal health technicians, commercial dog breeders, and dog owners. The content is tailored to meet the needs of both professionals and non-professionals, blending scientific research with hands-on applications. Participants learn about vector control, disease identification, treatment protocols, and emerging health threats such as Chagas disease. Whether you’re managing a kennel or working in a clinical setting, our training equips you with the tools to improve animal health and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Mathematical modeling plays a crucial role in veterinary epidemiology by helping scientists and public health professionals predict how diseases spread within animal populations and across species. These models simulate real-world scenarios, including infection rates, transmission dynamics, treatment effectiveness, and the impact of environmental or behavioral changes. At African Canine Health Consult, we use these models—especially in the context of zoonotic diseases like Chagas—to inform control strategies, optimize treatment protocols, and support public health surveillance systems such as those used by the U.S. CDC. Modeling allows for more targeted, data-driven interventions that can ultimately save lives.

We actively partner with leading universities, public health agencies, and veterinary organizations across Africa and the United States to share knowledge, conduct research, and deliver impactful training. For example, our founder Dr. Edem Fiatsonu has collaborated with institutions like Texas A&M University, the University of Texas, and the American Canine Foundation to lead training sessions and present innovative disease control strategies. These collaborations ensure that our work stays aligned with global best practices while addressing local challenges. By fostering international partnerships, we strengthen veterinary capacity and promote sustainable solutions to canine and zoonotic health threats.