Leishmaniosis in a hunting pack: screening and group prevention
A pack owner in Jaén keeps 25 dogs on a farm in outdoor kennels. Last year two dogs developed leishmaniosis. He wants a plan for the group before summer.
Which plan is most appropriate?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Treat only dogs that show clinical signs
Waiting for signs lets infected dogs remain a source of infection for sand flies and the rest of the group, and delays treatment.
B. Vaccinate all dogs against Leishmania without prior testing
The vaccine is only given to seronegative dogs and does not prevent infection; it only reduces the risk of disease. It does not replace repellents.
C. Annual quantitative serology of all dogs before the sand fly season, repellent on every dog throughout the season, and management of the positive dogs
Correct. Annual screening detects infection before signs appear. Repellents (deltamethrin collars or permethrin spot-ons) on every dog reduce bites, and vaccination can be added in seronegative dogs. Insecticides in the kennels, netting and bringing dogs indoors at dusk also help.
D. Give preventive allopurinol to all seronegative dogs during the summer
It is not recommended: it does not prevent infection, it causes hyperxanthinuria and uroliths, and it favours Leishmania resistance to allopurinol, which jeopardises the treatment of ill dogs.
lightbulb Key takeaway
In groups of hunting dogs prevention is collective: one unprotected dog keeps the cycle going. Screen in spring and retest dogs with equivocal results after 6 months. Use the visit to control ticks and cestodes as well.
Test yourself with 10 random questions
Parasitic diseases · 100 questions, a different test every time
Related questions
Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.