Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Leishmania Prevention in Travel and Import

Canine leishmaniasis is a serious welfare and public health concern in southern Europe and beyond, with prevention essential for travelling and imported dogs.

Key Facts

Leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum transmitted by sandflies
The disease causes skin, kidney and immune system damage and can be fatal without treatment
Clinical signs include skin lesions, weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes and kidney failure
A vaccine is available in southern Europe that provides partial protection
Dogs imported from endemic areas require screening and potentially long-term management

Welfare Considerations

Canine leishmaniasis causes progressive multi-organ disease that significantly reduces quality of life and lifespan without treatment. Prevention through vaccination and sandfly avoidance is the most welfare-positive approach. Dogs imported from endemic regions require thorough health screening to protect both their welfare and new owners.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate your dog against leishmania if travelling to endemic Mediterranean regions
Use effective sandfly repellent products on dogs in endemic areas
Screen imported dogs from leishmaniasis-endemic countries before acquisition