Canine Leishmaniasis is a potentially fatal disease that is caused by a parasite. Dogs can become infected when bitten by an infected sand fly. Sand flies become infected by biting an already infected animal. Some signs of Leishmaniasis include dry skin, dandruff, hair loss around the eyes and muzzle and skin sores, especially on the dogs head and legs. Severe weight loss is another symptom. This disease was recently discovered in hunting packs of fox hounds in the south eastern United States. In areas with infected sand flies, dogs should wear collars impregnated with insecticide. They should stay indoors when sand flies  are most active from just before sunset until sun up.

Remember, your pets count!