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Animal World

Update of canine Leishmaniosis; the vaccine
Canine leishmaniosis is a serious endemic illness that affects many dogs every year. It is transmitted by a mosquito (sand fly) mainly in the warmer period of the year.
Up until now there was no effective way to prevent this illness. The best recommendation was to reduce the dogs exposure to the mosquito (sleeping indoors, wearing mosquito repellent collars/spot on formulations..) and to perform at least yearly blood tests to detect early infection.
Now, as from the end of January, there is a new vaccine available on the market that will greatly change the incidence of leishmaniosis. This vaccine claims to have a high protection rate ( 93%) and, as such, we expect a drop of 68% in the diagnosis of new cases of leishmania.
All dogs above 6 months of age that are negative to leishmania antibodies can receive this vaccine. Initial vaccination protocol consists of three doses given every 21 days. A yearly booster will be required thereafter.
We recommend that all healthy non-infected dogs receive this vaccine. It is necessary to perform a quick blood test prior to vaccination.
The manufacturer of the vaccine still recommends the routine use of mosquito repellent collars and spot on formulations.

Nicole Wallner M.R.C.V.S. is available for further consultation at her veterinary surgery located on Avda.de la Paz, opposite the Can Misses roundabout/multicines, or call 971.194644 and for Emergencies – 690 911 277