It sounds like it's tranmitted by the sandfly.
Canine leishmaniasis - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia The disease entered this country in 2000, and seems to be spreading, some breeds are more susceptible to it. There is no cure, so I guess that's why some will recommend immunization. I would talk this over with my vet if I were you, and if it’s in your area you might want to take some type of precautions. It sounds like a pretty nasty disease. Humans can also get it.
Leishmaniasis - PubMed Health