Leishmania

Leishmania is a real problem here where I live in Spain. Approximately 50% of dogs are reported to be carriers of the disease. It is transmitted from dog to dog by the phlebotomine sand fly. IMPORTANT the name sand fly should not be confused in believing this insect is located only in sand or beach areas!

Once the dog is infected it can stay hidden and dormant for a long period of time and no apparent symptoms

It is important to ensure you dog is protected either by using a specific collar that is known to guard against it or other various spot on products. It is not sufficient to use products that are for ticks and fleas alone. It must include protection against the sand fly carrier of the leishmania disease. With my own dogs I use a collar with one and spot on product with the other two. This was advised by the vet as they have long and very thick hair and the collar would not be so good as it needs to be located next to the skin.

It is also advisable to have regular blood tests carried out at your vets to ensure your dog has not been infected. If caught in time it is possible to treat the disease with lifelong medication.

Here is a link to the Canine Leishmaniasis info Site where there is comprehensive information about all aspects of this serious and if not treated in time, often fatal disease. Vets also suggest 3 monthly tests to check that your dog is free from Leishmaniasis. However, this is of course costly, especially if you have a multi dog household. My vet personally recommends the test is carried out annually as a minimum.

Canine Leishmaniasis information