Which disease is caused by a microscopic tapeworm and is primarily found in canines and felines?

The chosen answer is correct because Alveolar Echinococcosis is a disease caused by the larval stage of a tapeworm known as Echinococcus multilocularis. This disease is primarily found in canines and felines, particularly those that are exposed to environments where they can ingest the eggs of this parasite, often through contact with infected feces. Infected animals can exhibit symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, and other health issues related to organ dysfunction as the larvae develop into cysts within the host's body.

Understanding the specifics of Echinococcus multilocularis is critical for recognizing the transmission cycle of this disease, which involves canids as definitive hosts and rodents as intermediate hosts. With a focus on wildlife and domestic animal health, knowledge of diseases like Alveolar Echinococcosis aids in the management and prevention of infections that can have significant public health implications if transferred to humans.

The other diseases listed do not involve a tapeworm nor are they primarily associated with canines or felines. Brucellosis is a bacterial infection affecting various species, Giardiasis is a protozoan infection caused by Giardia, and Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease associated with water