Heavy Metal Levels in Dog Liver and Kidney in Naples (Campania, Italy)

The aim of the current study was to carry out a retrospective analysis of heavy metal (Pb, Cd, and Hg) levels in liver and kidney of 38 dogs living in an urban habitat (city of Naples). Tissues were homogenized, digested in a microwave digestion system, and analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry. The results of this study showed generally low levels of heavy metals in tissues of all examined dogs; only mercury concentrations in kidneys of pet dogs were higher than in stray dogs, and no significant age-dependent differences in metal levels were shown between the two groups. In conclusion, these results suggest the involvement of ad hoc-formulated pet food exposure to heavy metals in domestic animals.