Specialist vets link chronic weight loss to patient’s travel history. A dog has made a remarkable recovery after he was diagnosed with canine leishmaniasis — a serious parasitic disease rarely seen in the UK.Within a month of starting treatment, the dog gained significant weight and test results showed that his body was recovering.This case highlights that a detailed travel and import history can be vital in uncovering hidden causes of chronic illnesses, and that international awareness, careful clinical investigation, and commitment from specialist teams can make all the difference. Chronic issuesWhen Winston, a one-year-old Rhodesian ridgeback, was referred to the Internal Medicine Service at the Hospital for Small Animals, he had been unwell for several months. He was suffering from severe weight and muscle loss, along with skin problems including distinctive hairless patches around his eyes. Whilst taking a detailed case history from Winston’s owner, the team learnt that he had been imported to the UK from Spain as a 15-week-old puppy. The team quickly considered leishmaniasis, a serious parasitic disease that is common in parts of mainland Europe and Africa but rarely seen in the UK.Challenging diseaseCanine leishmaniasis is a serious, progressive and, if left untreated, fatal disease of dogs. It can only be contracted through the bite of a sandfly, and the parasite can cause serious damage to the infected animals’ organs. Winston was referred to the Hospital due to severe weight and muscle loss and unusual hairless patches around his eyes. Although Winston’s symptoms matched those of leishmaniasis, diagnosis was difficult. The disease can mimic many other conditions and can cause a wide range of signs. The leishmania parasite can also hide in tissues for long periods of time, so infected animals can appear healthy for months or even years. Successful diagnosisThe Specialist-led Internal Medicine team carried out thorough tests. CT scans showed changes consistent with infection and kidney damage. Blood and urine tests indicated that Winston’s body was fighting an infection and that his kidneys were damaged, leading to protein being present in his urine. Although these results point to leishmaniasis, they could also be signs of other health issues.Crucially, Specialist pathologists from Easter Bush Pathology examined multiple samples from Winston’s lymph nodes and found the leishmania parasite itself within the tissues — providing a definite diagnosis.Swift recoveryFollowing his rapid diagnosis, Winston started appropriate treatment. Within four weeks, he had gained around 10kg and his skin had substantially improved. Within a month of starting treatment, Winston had gained around 10kg and his skin had substantially improved. Leishmaniasis cannot be cured, however Winston’s parasite burden and activity has dropped significantly since he began treatment and tests show that his kidney function has markedly improved. He will need to remain on medication and have regular check-ups to monitor his kidney health and ensure that the parasite stays under control. Winston was seriously ill and urgently referred to the Dick Vet. The care he received was outstanding - professional, compassionate, and thorough. Thanks to their expertise, he’s now making a fantastic recovery. We’re incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done. Winston’s owner This case highlights that collating a detailed travel and import history can be vital in uncovering hidden causes of chronic illnesses. I am proud of our team of Specialist vets who, through their international expertise, careful clinical investigation and dedication to find a diagnosis, were able to help Winston. Professor Silke Salavati RCVS Specialist in Internal medicine and Head of Internal Medicine Service, Hospital for Small Animals Advice to ownersThe team advise pet owners to be aware of the risks when buying a cat or dog originally from the continent, and to speak to their vet about how they can protect their pets if they are planning to travel overseas with them to areas where leishmaniasis is endemic. As the parasite is spread by sandflies, using a pet-safe topical insecticide that is effective against sandflies can prevent pets from infection with the leishmania parasite. Vaccination is also potentially available. About the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies is a one-of-a-kind centre of excellence in clinical activity, teaching and research. Our purpose-built campus, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Pentland Hills Regional Park, is home to more than 800 staff and almost 1400 students, all of whom contribute to our exceptional community ethos. The School comprises: The Roslin Institute The Roslin Innovation Centre The Hospital for Small Animals Equine Veterinary Services Farm Animal Services Easter Bush Pathology The Animal Welfare Centre We represent the largest concentration of animal science-related expertise in Europe, impacting local, regional, national and international communities in terms of economic growth, the provision of clinical services and the advancement of scientific knowledge. Tags Small Animals Vet School This article was published on Tuesday 23 June 2026
