Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania infantum transmitted by sandflies, is endemic in southern Europe and spreading northward. It causes severe systemic disease and welfare impacts in dogs.
Untreated leishmaniasis causes progressive deterioration of quality of life — affected dogs experience profound weight loss, painful skin ulceration, and eventually renal failure. Long-term management with allopurinol and/or meglumine antimoniate reduces clinical signs and extends quality life expectancy. Welfare-positive management requires regular monitoring of blood parameters (renal function, protein:creatinine ratio) and honest quality-of-life assessment. Prevention through sandfly repellents and vaccination is far preferable to treatment.