What are sand flies?

They are mainly active at night and do not need to suck blood to survive. They therefore only bite in self-defence. This is in contrast to the sand fleas that live in tropical regions, such as Central and South America, Africa, India, Pakistan and the Caribbean. These fleas burrow into the skin to feed on blood and can cause severe skin infections and transmit diseases such as tetanus.

As annoying as these sand fleas are, this article focuses on sandflies. These insects are found in the Mediterranean region and can transmit diseases to your dog.

The danger of sandflies for your dog?

Sandflies are found in countries around the Mediterranean, such as Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece and France. But also Turkey, Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Malta and Israel. The sandfly season lasts from around May to October. During this period, your dog has the highest chance of being bitten by these bothersome insects. Sandflies are especially active at dusk. They are dangerous because they can transmit the disease Leishmania. Leishmania is difficult to diagnose due to its vague symptoms and is also hard to treat.

Leishmania in dogs

Leishmania is the disease transmitted by sandflies. Once a dog is infected with Leishmania, it cannot be cured. The parasite will remain present in the body. You can only treat the symptoms. All the more reason to prevent your dog from getting infected! As mentioned, Leishmania causes vague symptoms, most commonly seen on the skin:

• Hair loss on the ears, around the eyes and the nose
• Weight loss despite a good appetite
• Skin inflammations
• Abnormal nails due to hyperkeratosis

Leishmania can also affect internal organs, causing symptoms like:

• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Fever
• Anaemia
• Joint inflammations

Because these symptoms are very non-specific, it often takes time before the diagnosis is made. It may also take months before your dog becomes ill after being infected with Leishmania. Always inform your veterinarian if your dog has travelled abroad! Leishmania will then be considered as a possible cause earlier. A blood test can confirm the diagnosis.

How is Leishmania treated in dogs?

The earlier treatment starts, the less damage the parasite can do, and the better the chances of recovery. Medications like allopurinol or milteforan are used to target the Leishmania parasite. Additionally, symptomatic treatment is used to reduce any present symptoms. Treatment is only meaningful if the dog actually shows symptoms. The parasite can also be present without causing symptoms. In such cases, supporting the dog’s immune system — for example with Phytonics Immu Boost Pro — may help prevent an active Leishmania infection. Often, it is advised to check your dog’s blood every six months to detect a reactivation in time.

How can you prevent Leishmania in your dog?

Leishmania is transmitted by sandflies. So, you can prevent infection by protecting your dog against these flies. There are several products available, such as the Adimere flea collar, Scalibor collar, or Tick-Off flea and tick collar. If you prefer a spot-on treatment, Vectra 3D or Advantix are good options. In areas where sandflies occur, heartworm is also often present. Therefore, it is recommended to protect your dog against heartworm as well when travelling abroad. You can use deworming products such as Milbemax or No Worm Pro. Another option is the Elanco Protection Package. Since no product offers 100% protection, it is also advisable to keep your dog indoors during dusk.

Do you have any questions about sandflies and Leishmania? Please contact us via veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.