Let's take a deeper look at the reasons behind this increase, the risks posed by canine vector-borne disease, and the critical role we, as veterinarians, must play in addressing this growing challenge.

The Risks Posed by CVBDs

CVBDs are transmitted by various vectors, including ticks, fleas, sand flies, and mosquitoes. These vectors can carry a range of pathogens, causing diseases that affect dogs and, in some cases, humans.

Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted by ticks, is one of the most well-known canine vector-borne diseases with zoonotic potential, posing a risk to humans. Other significant diseases include leishmaniasis, which is transmitted by sand flies, and heartworm disease, which is spread by mosquitoes.

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The rise of these diseases has direct implications for pet health, leading to severe illness, chronic conditions, and even death if not properly managed. Furthermore, the zoonotic nature of some CVBDs heightens the risk for humans, requiring greater vigilance and prevention measures.

Why Are CVBDs Increasing in Europe?

The increasing prevalence of CVBDs in Europe can potentially be attributed to several factors:

• Climate change: Warmer temperatures and changing weather patterns create favourable conditions for vectors to thrive. Extended warm seasons and milder winters allow ticks and other vectors to remain active for longer periods, increasing their chances of spreading diseases.
• Increased travel and importing of domestic pets: With more people travelling and relocating with their pets, vectors and their hosts are introduced to new areas, allowing diseases to spread to previously unaffected regions.
• New habitats: Urbanisation and changing land use can create new habitats for vectors. For example, deforestation and land development can push vectors into closer contact with human and pet populations.

These factors contribute to the spread of diseases, such as Lyme disease, leishmaniasis, and heartworm disease, among others, leading to an increased burden on veterinary practices and public health systems.

Our Role as Veterinarians in Combatting CVBDs

Veterinarians play a critical role in addressing the rise of CVBDs. Here are some essential strategies we can implement to help control and prevent these diseases:

1. Emphasise Preventive Measures

Preventive measures are the first line of defence against CVBDs. As veterinarians, we should encourage pet owners to use parasiticides regularly to protect their dogs from ticks, fleas, and other vectors. Vaccines against diseases like Lyme disease and leishmaniasis can provide additional protection.

2. Educate Pet Owners

Education is key to prevention. We need to inform pet owners about the risks of CVBDs, the signs and symptoms to watch for, and the importance of preventive measures. Regular check-ups and early detection can prevent severe outcomes.

3. Conduct Proactive Testing and Diagnosis

Routine screenings as part of wellness exams help detect CVBDs early. Pet owners who have imported or travelled with their pets should be encouraged to screen their pets returning from European countries, as many VBDs present with either diverse, non-specific signs, or are asymptomatic, making a definitive diagnosis challenging.

As veterinarians, we should utilise diagnostic tests to confirm any suspected cases and ensure prompt treatment. The findings of this 2022 study published in Parasites & Vectors, which represents the largest data set on CVBD seropositivity in Europe to date, can help inform veterinarians of the results in their geography and may help improve the prevention of these important clinical and zoonotic diseases.

4. Participate in Surveillance Programs

Surveillance programs play a crucial role in monitoring the prevalence of CVBDs in different regions. By participating in these programs and reporting cases to relevant authorities, we can contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology of these diseases. This information is valuable for implementing targeted control measures and raising awareness in the broader community.

5. Collaborate with Other Stakeholders

We need to work collaboratively with public health authorities, veterinary organisations, research institutions, and other stakeholders. This collaboration fosters knowledge sharing, research, and coordinated efforts to control the spread of VBDs.

By implementing these strategies, we can significantly impact controlling CVBDs, ensuring the health and safety of dogs and reducing risks to humans. The rising threat of CVBDs calls for a concerted effort to address this growing challenge, and as veterinarians, we are at the forefront of this critical mission.

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