Are sandflies a problem in France, and is my dog at risk?

Reader Question: I recently read about sandflies being a problem across all of France, but I thought they only existed close to deserts. I walk my dog often by beaches in the south, is it at risk?

Sandflies (called phlébotomes in French) are more common in warmer climates such as parts of South America, Africa and Asian countries etc, however can be found across the Mediterranean including in the south of France. 

Sandflies are usually more usually seen in rural areas and woodland but with climate change are becoming more prevalent.

They have recently been found as far north as Lyon and Bordeaux.

A bite from a sandfly can lead to leishmaniasis in both humans and dogs which can potentially be fatal. 

Is my dog at risk from sandflies?

There are warnings for dog owners who take their pets to the south of France to be aware of the risk of sandfly bites.

Currently sandflies are thought only prevalent in the south. Dogs infected from a bite cannot transmit the disease to other animals (or humans).

As climate change brings warmer temperatures to the centre and north of France, however, sandflies may begin to permanently reside in these locations, bringing the risk of the disease with them.

There are recommendations to lessen the risk of your dog being infected:

• Check that the typical anti-parasite products you use (collar, spray, pipette etc) are also effective against sandflies. Some of these products are only effective against fleas and ticks

• Avoid walking your dog after dark 

• Keep your dog inside at night, do not let it sleep outside 

• Try to prevent your dog from running off into woody and bushy areas when in rural parts of the south

There is a vaccine for the disease, but it is not 100% effective. You can see if your vet recommends this.

If your dog does get bitten symptoms can include: 

• Fever

• Anorexia (lack of appetite)

• Weakness and decreased stamina, 

• Severe weight loss, 

• Diarrhoea, vomiting, increased drinking and urination, 

• Bleeding from the nose

Around a third of infected dogs also suffer from lymph nodes and kidney failure. 

Read more: Dogs die of rare disease in south-west France: vaccination advised

Is there a cure?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for leishmaniasis in dogs, and infected animals keep the disease for life. 

However, with the use of anti-parasite medicine and other treatments, infected dogs may be able to live many years, with a fairly good quality of life. 

Some dogs only have mild symptoms of the disease, and can live mostly unaffected. Dogs that face kidney failure, however, are likely to pass away quicker, and may not be able to have the usual treatments. 

Read more: How to raise alarm if you see a pet in distress on your French travels