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A two-year old, male German Shepherd dog was presented with a history of bleeding from the mouth for two days. On physical examination, the dog had normal heart rate and rhythm, and temperature. Respiratory rate was elevated and chest auscultation revealed rate sound. The dog was in good condition and appetite was normal. Chest radiography did not show any significant changes.
After sedation with Xylazine HCL (1.5 mg/kg 1M) and anesthesia was induced by using sodium thiopental (7 mg/kg IV), four leeches were removed from base of the tongue. The clinical significance of leech infestation in animals and its treatment has been thoroughly discussed.