Healthy Travels: Protecting Your Dog Abroad

The desire to travel among pet owners does not stop at the national border – and often, their faithful companion joins them. However, in warmer regions like the Mediterranean, serious dangers lurk that are not immediately visible.

If you are travelling with your dog to the Mediterranean or other southern regions, it is essential to get informed early about potential health risks. Certain infectious diseases transmitted by ticks or mosquitoes – so-called travel diseases – can have severe health consequences for dogs.

During trips abroad, five particular diseases transmitted by ticks or biting insects pose a risk to dogs: Leishmaniasis, Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, and Dirofilariasis (heartworms).

Leishmaniasis is transmitted by the bite of the sandfly. It can cause severe skin changes, weight loss, lameness, and damage to the eyes and kidneys. In most cases, lifelong treatment is necessary.

Babesiosis is transmitted by ticks. It often progresses acutely, leading to high fever, anaemia, and kidney issues. Without prompt treatment, the disease is often fatal.

There is a vaccination available against Babesiosis. Ideally, it should be started in winter and includes two basic immunisations and annual boosters, especially recommended for frequent travellers to risk areas.

Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection also transmitted by ticks. It can have a chronic or acute course and can be fatal. Typical symptoms include fever, weakness, bleeding, and breathing difficulties.

Anaplasmosis is transmitted by various types of ticks. Affected dogs often show skin haemorrhages, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. A complete recovery is often not possible.

Note: Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis are now also found in parts of Switzerland.

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. They can cause severe heart and lung problems that can be fatal if untreated. While heartworms are rare in Switzerland, individual cases have been detected in Ticino. In the neighbouring Po Valley in northern Italy and further south, Dirofilariasis is more common.

Consistent protection against ticks and mosquitoes can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Spot-on treatments, collars, or tablets effective against ticks and mosquitoes are essential. When travelling to areas at risk for Leishmaniasis, ensure your chosen protection is also effective against sandflies.

If preventive protection was incomplete or forgotten, ESCCAP (an independent expert group on parasites in pets) recommends targeted testing for certain pathogens after returning home. Testing should be done in consultation with your veterinarian and ideally several weeks after the trip, as many infections are detectable only after a delay.

After visiting regions with heartworm risks, additional medical treatment may be advisable to eliminate possible larvae promptly. This therapy should begin no later than one month after returning.

Together with you, we plan the best possible protection for your dog. We offer personalised advice based on the latest scientific knowledge – with empathy and expertise.

Visit your VetTrust small animal practice early and ensure that the best time of the year remains a safe and healthy experience for your four-legged friend.

We are also here for you after your return. In case of abnormalities or health issues, we will support you competently and reliably.