Leishmaniasis in Dogs

What is leishmaniasis in dogs?

Leishmaniasis is caused by a single celled parasite, protozoan, found in dogs, cats and certain rodents. This usually occurs in animals in rural areas and is transmitted by small biting sand flies. Humans can also contract leishmaniasis making it crucial that owners understand the symptoms, causes and treatments of this disease. 

Leishmaniasis symptoms in dogs

Leishmania disease symptoms include:

• Fever. 
• Severe weight loss.
• Anorexia (a lack of appetite).
• Weakness.
• Vomiting.
• Decreased stamina.
• Diarrhoea.
• Increased drinking and urination.
• Bleeding from the nose.

A third of dogs will also develop swollen lymph nodes and an enlarged spleen which will eventually progress into kidney failure. They may also experience joint inflammation, muscle pain and swelling of the testicles. 

The cutaneous form of canine leishmaniasis usually has clinical symptoms like hardening and thickening of the tissues on the dog’s muzzle and footpads called hyperkeratosis. This can cause pigment to be lost or dark colouring of the skin as the disease progresses. 

Hard lumps or nodules may also appear with the dog’s skin and coat appearing brittle and dull and even experiencing hair loss. Nails can also become long and curve abnormally.

Nearly all dogs with leishmaniasis will develop its visceral form. This is the most severe form and poses a threat to life if it’s not treated quickly. This form of the disease can cause spleen and liver enlargement as well as a fever and weight loss. 

Leishmaniasis stages in dogs

• Stage 1: The disease is mild with little to no changes appearing in blood work.
• Stage 2: The disease is moderate and antibodies as well as elevations in protein and mild anaemia appear in blood work. Changes to skin, weight loss and bleeding from the nose may also occur.
• Stage 3: The disease is severe and could show signs of kidney disease, eye inflammation and an enlarged spleen and lymph nodes. 
• Stage 4: This is an extremely severe form of the disease that shows signs of difficulty breathing and blood work consistent with kidney failure. 

What are the first signs of leishmaniasis in dogs?

Some of the first signs of leishmaniasis include:

• Skin lesions - These affect 80% - 90% of the body and can appear as nodules, ulcers, or thickened skin that tends to appear most around the dog's face and pressure points.
• Weight loss.
• Problems with their eyes.
• Nosebleeds.
• Enlarged lymph nodes and/or spleen.
• Lethargy.
• A reduced appetite. 

Leishmaniasis treatment for dogs

When treating leishmaniasis the aim is to resolve the clinical signs. A variety of treatments can be used and are often combined. Treatments include:

• Sodium stibogluconate, however this can be difficult to obtain.
• Meglumine antimonite.
• Allopurinol with or without domperidone.
• Marbofloxacin.
• Intravenous fluids. 
• Special therapeutic diets.
• Antibiotics are prescribed if the lesions are infected.
• Surgery may be used to remove solitary skin lesions.

Despite there being a range of treatments available, there isn’t a cure for leishmaniasis. 

How to prevent leishmaniasis in dogs

There are a few ways you can prevent leishmaniasis disease in dogs, such as:

• Avoid sand flies as these spread the disease - Dogs in the UK are at minimal risk.
• Use repellents - If you’re planning on travelling with your dog you should apply sand fly repellent through collars or spot-on treatment. You should apply them 1-2 weeks before your trip.
• Vaccinate your dog - You can vaccinate your dog if they’re going to an affected area for a long time. This won’t completely prevent the disease, so using repellents as well is recommended. 
• Improve your dog's general health and nutrition.

FAQs

What is leishmaniasis in dogs' life expectancy?  

The life expectancy of dogs with leishmania can vary hugely depending on the stage. Dogs with stage 1 may still live a full life, whereas at stage 3 or 4 the prognosis could be less than one year, and can be very expensive to maintain. 

How long can leishmaniasis be dormant in dogs?

Leishmaniasis can lie dormant in a dog for up to seven years.