The disease is transmitted through the bite of an already infected sandfly (yellow or gray mosquito) in dogs, cats and even humans. However, veterinarian Andre Santos explains, it is not transmitted if a person is in contact with an infected dog or cat.
Leishmaniasis is also silent, and by the time owners discover the first symptoms in their animals – which could be sores on the nose, crusts on the skin, or rapid nail growth – it is already at an advanced stage and treatment will take longer. Kidney and joint problems are also symptoms, although these are less common.
In this episode of the podcast Pet carethe vet behind the Instagram page Andre Santos, veterinarian He explains that the best thing to do in these cases is to prevent and test for leishmaniasis.
These mosquitoes are widespread in Portugal, especially in the regions of Lisbon, Alto Douro, Alentejo or the Algarve. Sunrise and the end of the day are the most dangerous times for sand flies to bite, so you should avoid taking your dogs for a walk.
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