Canine leishmaniasis is a serious parasitic disease spread by sandfly bites in Mediterranean and tropical regions, causing chronic progressive disease affecting skin, kidneys, and immune function with significant welfare implications.
Canine leishmaniasis causes progressive, multisystem disease that significantly impairs quality of life in affected dogs. Skin lesions including scaly dermatitis, alopecia, and periocular changes cause itching and discomfort. Muscle wasting and general debilitation reduce activity and enjoyment of life. Renal failure in advanced cases is a slow, uncomfortable deterioration. With treatment, many dogs stabilise and maintain acceptable quality of life, but monitoring is lifelong and the disease can progress despite treatment. Prevention through sandfly control is far preferable to managing established disease. Owners moving dogs to or from endemic regions require clear veterinary guidance about screening and prevention.