What is lungworm?
Lungworm is a type of parasitic worm, called Angiostrongylus Vasorum, which can affect dogs. Unlike other intestinal worms, lungworm can travel around a dog's body, causing damage to their lungs and other major organs. If you suspect your dog might be infected with lungworm, it's important you seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible. If left untreated, it can be fatal.
How could my pet catch lungworm?
The larvae of the lungworm parasite are carried by slugs and snails, and dogs can become infected if they ingest slugs, snails (or even their slime). It can also be transmitted via the faeces of another dog infected with lungworm. Ingestion can often occur when your dog is rummaging through undergrowth, eating grass, drinking from puddles or outdoor water bowls. Dogs that are infected with lungworm spread the parasite as the larvae of the parasite are expelled in the dog’s poo. This increases the likelihood of other dogs becoming infected. As well as dogs, foxes can become infected with lungworm and have been heavily implicated in the spread of the parasite across the country. Surprisingly, frogs can also carry the larvae, which presents additional risk to dogs.
What are the symptoms of lungworm?
Not all dogs show visible signs of a lungworm infection straight away, but here are a few things to look out for:
- Breathing problems
- Coughing and wheezing
- Tiring easily
- Poor blood clotting
- Nose bleeds
- Excessive bleeding from even minor wounds/cuts
- Anaemia – paleness around eyes and gums
- Bleeding in the eye
- General sickness
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Changes in behaviour
- Depression
- Lethargy
- Seizures/fits
If in any doubt, please contact your local surgery so we can book you in for an appointment straight away.
Can lungworm be treated?
If your dog is diagnosed with lungworm, we can treat your pet. Once diagnosed and treated, most dogs make a full recovery. The key to successful treatment is taking action early. If you think that your dog may have picked up lungworm or could be at risk from picking up a lungworm infection, speak to your local team today.
Remeber: not all worming products include lungworm prevention. Ask our team for more information on lungworm prevention - they'll be happy to assist.