Background and purpose: Salmonellosis is one of the most important zoonotic diseases with global distribution. Rural dogs may not show clinical signs of salmonella infection. But could remain the bacteria carrier for a long period. The aim of this study was to assess the potential role of rural dogs in epidemiology of salmonellosis in Golestan and Mazandaran provinces.

Materials and methods: Rectal swabs of 210 asymptomatic rural dogs from Golestan and Mazandaran provinces (2013-2015) were cultured and evaluated by PCR using universal primers ST 11 and ST 15 at the genus level. Salmonella isolates were serotyped and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility applying standard methods.

Results: Salmonella spp. were isolated from 40 (19.4%) samples. Three salmonella serotypes were observed including S. enteritidis (50%), S. typhymurium (35%), and S. dublin (15%). Salmonellosis was more prevalent in autumn (P<0.05). Highest antimicrobial resistance was found against streptomycin, ampicillin, and neomycin.

Conclusion: Isolation of Salmonella spp. from asymptomatic dogs makes them dangerous source of Salmonella and a treat for human and animal health.