Dogs travelling to Mediterranean and tropical countries face Leishmania infection risk from sandfly bites, requiring proactive prevention strategies to protect their welfare abroad.
Leishmania infection acquired during travel causes a chronic, difficult-to-treat disease that significantly impairs quality of life for affected dogs. The disease often becomes apparent months after return to a non-endemic country, by which time treatment resources and specialist knowledge may be limited in the dog's home country. Prevention is far preferable to treatment: the combination of repellent collar, topical permethrin, and vaccination (where available) provides strong protection. Dogs should avoid outdoor activity during peak sandfly activity at dawn and dusk in endemic areas. Owners planning travel to endemic regions should consult a vet at least 4-6 weeks before departure to allow time for vaccination and collar application.