Leishmaniasis

How do you recognize leishmaniasis in dogs?

The symptoms of leishmaniasis can vary greatly and depend on the type of parasite, the dog's immune system and the duration of the infection. The most common signs are

• Skin changes such as hair loss, dandruff, crusts or ulcers, especially on the ears, nose, paws or tail
• Weight loss despite a good appetite
• fever
• Fatigue
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Bleeding from the nose or mouth
• Eye inflammation
• Kidney problems such as increased thirst, frequent urination or urinary incontinence

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. Only a blood test can provide a reliable diagnosis of leishmaniasis.

How can you prevent leishmaniasis in dogs?

Unfortunately, there is still no effective vaccine against leishmaniasis. The best prevention is therefore to avoid contact with sand flies. You can do this by:

• Not leaving your dog outside in the evening and at night, as this is when sand flies are most active
• protecting your dog with an insect-repellent collar or spot-on that is specifically effective against sand flies
• Have your dog checked regularly for parasites, especially if you are traveling with him to a risk area
• Have your dog neutered, as unneutered dogs are more susceptible to leishmaniasis

How do you treat leishmaniasis in dogs?

Unfortunately, leishmaniasis cannot be cured. This means that the parasite always remains in the dog's body and can break out again at any time. Treatment therefore aims to alleviate the symptoms and improve the dog's quality of life. This includes

• The administration of medication that inhibits the reproduction of the parasite
• The administration of medication that strengthens the dog's immune system
• The administration of medication that supports kidney function
• Caring for the skin and wounds with special shampoos or ointments
• Adapting the diet to the dog's needs