What are the symptoms of canine leishmaniasis?

Skin lesions (flaking around the eyes, wounds that do not heal). Weight loss despite eating. Excessive nail growth. Lethargy and weakness. Swollen lymph nodes. Kidney problems (in advanced stages)

Is Canine leishmaniasis contagious?

Canine leishmaniasis does not spread directly between animals. However, it can affect people in certain circumstances.

Parásitos

Canine leishmaniasis

A serious disease transmitted by the bite of the sandfly. It is endemic throughout the Mediterranean basin. It cannot be fully cured: it is managed for life. It is a zoonosis (rare but possible).

Severe🐕 Dogs Zoonosis

This may be a veterinary emergency

See your vet if you notice skin lesions that do not heal, weight loss or abnormally long nails. An annual test is essential if you live in a Mediterranean area.

Symptoms to watch for

• Skin lesions (flaking around the eyes, wounds that do not heal)
• Weight loss despite eating
• Excessive nail growth
• Lethargy and weakness
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Kidney problems (in advanced stages)

Causes

The Leishmania parasite, transmitted by the bite of the sandfly, which is active from dusk (May to October). An infected dog does not directly infect other dogs.

Diagnosis

Blood test (serology) and, if needed, cytology of bone marrow or a lymph node. An annual test is recommended in endemic areas.

Treatment

Lifelong treatment to control the parasite burden and the symptoms. A combination of drugs depending on the stage. Regular monitoring of kidney function. There is no complete cure.

Prevention

PREVENTION is key: a repellent collar or spot-on against the sandfly (from May to October), an annual vaccine, and keeping the dog from sleeping outdoors at dusk. Prevention is far more effective than treatment.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if you notice skin lesions that do not heal, weight loss or abnormally long nails. An annual test is essential if you live in a Mediterranean area.

Consult a vet 24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.