Worried dog in a landscape with sandfly silhouettes, symbolizing the threat of Leishmaniasis.

Is Leishmaniasis Threatening Your Dog? What You Need to Know

Lena Kashyap in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 3 min read.

"Uncover the facts about Leishmania infection in dogs and how to protect your furry friend from this emerging threat in unexpected locations."

For decades, American visceral leishmaniasis (AVL) was a disease largely confined to specific regions. However, the landscape is changing, with new cases emerging in areas previously considered low-risk. This shift means that dog owners everywhere need to be more aware of the risks and how to protect their beloved pets.

Once heavily concentrated in the northeast of Brazil, AVL has expanded its reach, now significantly impacting the southeast. This territorial expansion highlights the adaptive capacity of the vectors that transmit the disease, making it a concern even in urban centers.

A recent study focused on Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil, a region initially considered free of visceral leishmaniasis, until autochthonous cases were reported in 2011. The research highlights the importance of understanding the occurrence and spread of Leishmania in canine populations, and underscores why dog owners need to stay informed.

What are the key findings from the Florianópolis study?

Worried dog in a landscape with sandfly silhouettes, symbolizing the threat of Leishmaniasis.

The study, conducted in Florianópolis, examined 491 dogs to assess the prevalence of Leishmania infection. Researchers used two serological methods, ELISA and IFAT, to detect antibodies against Leishmania sp. The results indicated a seroprevalence of 0.4% by ELISA and 4.09% by IFAT. In total, 5.3% of the dogs tested positive for Leishmania infection.

Further investigation involved analyzing DNA samples from seropositive animals. While Leishmania sp. DNA was amplified using conventional and Real-Time PCR, it was not possible to determine the exact species of Leishmania involved. This limitation underscores the complexities in identifying specific pathogens and the need for more extensive research.

ELISA: 0.4% (2/491)
IFAT: 4.09% (24/491)
Total Seroreactivity: 5.3% (25/491)

These findings are particularly important because Florianópolis was previously regarded as a disease-free region for visceral leishmaniasis. The detection of autochthonous cases and the presence of Leishmania DNA suggest that the disease is emerging in this area, necessitating a thorough epidemiological investigation.

What Does This Mean for Dog Owners?

The emergence of leishmaniasis in new regions underscores the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures. Dog owners should consult with their veterinarians about regular screening, especially if living in or traveling to areas where the disease has been reported. Preventive measures, such as using insect repellents effective against sandflies (the vectors of Leishmania) and avoiding outdoor activities during peak sandfly hours, can also help reduce the risk of infection.

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Everything You Need To Know

What is Leishmaniasis?

Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania. It is transmitted to dogs through the bite of infected sandflies. The disease can manifest in various forms, including visceral leishmaniasis (AVL), which affects internal organs. Understanding the nature of Leishmania infection is the first step to protecting your dog.

What did the Florianópolis study find?

The Florianópolis study used two serological methods, ELISA and IFAT, to detect antibodies against Leishmania sp. in dogs. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) showed a seroprevalence of 0.4%, while IFAT (indirect fluorescent antibody test) showed 4.09%. Overall, 5.3% of the dogs tested positive for Leishmania infection. These methods are crucial for identifying infected dogs, even before they show symptoms, allowing for early intervention.

Why is the emergence of Leishmaniasis in Florianópolis significant?

The study found that the disease, Leishmaniasis, is emerging in the region, which was previously considered disease-free. The detection of autochthonous cases, cases originating within the area, and the presence of Leishmania DNA indicate the spread of the disease. This means that dog owners in the region need to be aware of the risks and take preventative measures. This shift underscores the adaptive capacity of the vectors that transmit the disease and the need for understanding the disease.

How can I protect my dog from Leishmaniasis?

If your dog is at risk, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian about regular screening for Leishmania infection. Also, using insect repellents effective against sandflies, the vectors of Leishmania, is crucial, particularly during peak sandfly hours. Avoiding outdoor activities during these times can also reduce the risk. These measures help reduce the chances of your dog contracting Leishmania infection, offering peace of mind and better health outcomes.

What is the significance of Leishmaniasis spreading to new areas?

American visceral leishmaniasis (AVL) has expanded its reach, impacting new areas like Florianópolis. This expansion highlights the need for greater awareness among dog owners everywhere. The implications include increased vigilance, regular screening, and the use of preventative measures, especially in areas with reported cases. The goal is to protect dogs from this emerging threat. The disease is no longer confined to specific regions.