Leishmaniasis: How to Protect Your Dog

Leishmaniasis is a serious parasitic disease that affects dogs. Veterinarian Eleftherios Ginargyros explains that it is caused by the parasite leishmania infantum and is transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies.

Unfortunately, leishmaniasis does not have characteristic symptoms. It can manifest as anorexia, dry skin, nosebleeds, onychogryposis, and hair loss around the eyes. Diagnosis is made with a special serological test.

Treatment is based on leishmanicidal and leishmanistatic drugs. The success of treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the condition of the animal's kidneys.

Prevention is the best measure. This includes vaccination, the use of latest-generation ampoules that protect against sandflies, parasite-repellent collars with deltamethrin, and spraying with citronella spray.