There are two important bugs/insects that you need to be aware of:
- “Procesionaria” Caterpillar (+info click here)
- “Leishmania” Mosquito
*Disclaimer: Please always contrast the information with specialists and various sources. Some information has been simplified for better understanding. The content of this document is provided for guidance only, and while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information and translations contained, no liability can be accepted for any errors omissions and inaccuracies, or for the opinions expressed herein.
2. Leishmaniasis, the slow-killer Mosquito🦟⚠️
2.1 What is the Leishmaniosis Mosquito?
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There are several different forms of leishmaniasis. The most common are cutaneous and visceral. The cutaneous type causes skin sores.
It is mostly found in arid areas of the Spanish peninsula (Andalusia and Málaga) and the Balearic and Canary Islands
2.2. It Leishmania really harmful for my dog?
Luckily, nowadays there are more options for treatment, from medication to proper diets. The sooner you detect the disease, the higher the chances are of stopping the development of the disease.
Visceral leishmaniasis, if left untreated, is fatal in more than 95% of cases.
If detected early, however, a dog with controlled leishmaniasis can live for many years with an acceptable quality of life. Leishmania invades blood cells, replicates and spreads throughout the body, so it is crucial to treat it on time.
2.3 Leishmania Symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Exaggerated nail growth
- Swollen/enlarged glands.
- Alopecia in certain areas of the body, such as ears, and around the eyes
- Thinness and weight loss for no apparent reason
- Skin sores that can develop into a skin ulcer that heals very slowly
- Congestion, runny nose, and nosebleed
- Difficulty swallowing
- Ulcers and wear (erosion) on the mouth, tongue, gums, lips, nose, and nasal septum.
If you suspect your dog has leishmaniasis, please contact your local veterinarian to do the blood tests and start the treatment as soon as possible.
2.5 How can I reduce the probability of my dog getting Leishmaniosis?
Firstly, pharmaceutical solutions could include:
My personal best choice is to buy the SERESTO neck collar from Bayer. Although it is not a fancy collar, it is considered to be one of the best mosquito repellents (works great as an anti-parasite, for ticks and fleas). *Please always consult with your veterinarian!
There are also vaccines, but these do not cover the different strains of Leishmanoisis, so your dog wouldn’t be fully covered. Of course, it reduces the risk… *Please always consult with your veterinarian!
And secondly, avoid anything that could increase the presence of mosquitos, such us:
- Avoid going to lakes or humid areas.
- Avoid going to the city canals where there are water and bushes.
- Avoid dark and humid areas for your dog and in your home.
To read about the Deadly Caterpillar in Málaga: “Procesionaria” Caterpillar (+info click here)
Finally, do not be paranoid.
This blog is published to inform and prevent any unwanted situation for you and your pet. There is no awareness from the local hall or Málaga Institutions to build consciousness on the matter.
Stay informed and spread the word so we keep our doggies safe and healthy! 🖤
If you wish to keep informed about legal matters, health issues, and lifestyle in Málaga or about your dog’s wellbeing in general, subscribe to our mailing list here: info@offsidedogs.com
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*Disclaimer: Please always contrast the information with specialists and various sources. Some information has been simplified for better understanding. The content of this document is provided for guidance only, and while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information and translations contained, no liability can be accepted for any errors omissions and inaccuracies, or for the opinions expressed herein.
End of the article.
