Objective: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), which is a zoonotic disease, is an infectious disease caused by Leishmania infantum (L. infantum), commonly seen in the world, and is endemic in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions of our country and sporadic in other regions. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiological status of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CanVL), which is known to be a reservoir for visceral leishmaniasis in humans and to evaluate CanVL with more specific molecular detection methods.

Material and Method: In the present study whole blood samples were collected from 93 dogs in two shelters in Istanbul. Blood samples were evaluated for the presence of L. infantum by using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method.

Results: A total of the 93 stray dogs were included in the study. L. infantum was detected by real-time PCR method in 5 (5.4%) dogs and these dogs were diagnosed with CanVL.

Conclusion: The decrease in VL prevalence in humans is directly related to detection of CanVL by effective methods and also taking necessary precautions. In order to determine the true incidence of leishmaniasis in humans and dogs, further investigations should be performed, especially in endemic areas like our country.