Protecting your Pet from Canine Lungworm

Most dogs have toys, most of which end up in their mouths and are completely harmless. However, if your dog has a particular favourite toy that he/she takes on walks or in the garden this exposes it to garden critters such as slugs and snails.

Dogs that chew on their toys which have had slugs and snails on them are at threat of canine lugworm.  If the slugs or snails are mistakenly ingested your dog could be at risk of becoming infected by the parasites carried on them.

Once ingested, the parasites travel through the body ending up in the heart.  If the infection is left untreated the dog’s health can quickly deteriorate becoming fatal for them.

 So, how can we combat lungworm?

Bayer animal health world leader experts in animal parasitology have set up a campaign to help owners identify lungworm.  It is known as: “Be Lungworm Aware.”

Whilst many owners are becoming more aware of the parasite there is still a real lack of understanding about warning signs associated with the condition. Under the campaign owners are advised to remember the RISK acronym:

Relevant to all dogs

Increasing in Prevalence

Spreading at an alarming rate

Kills dogs if it is left untreated

The table below illustrates the symptoms and preventions listed to help owners identify lungworm.  If you suspect that your dog is showing any of the symptoms detailed, then make an appointment to consult your vet right away.  However, don’t let it reach that stage, prevention is better than cure – seeking advice for an effective parasite protection plan for your dog is one step that you can put in place to stamp out Canine Lungworm.

Symptoms to look for	Prevention
  Breathing – coughing, tiring easily	  Seek advice from your vet on a parasite control programme for your dog; this should take into account dogs becoming infected and general information for the owner on lungworm.
  Poor blood clotting – excessive bleeding from minor wounds, nose bleeds, bleeding into the eye, paleness around the eyes/gums	  Avoid putting drinking water in bowls outdoors, these can attract slugs and snails
  Changes in their normal behaviour – depression, tiring easily, seizures	  Don’t leave dog toys, chews or bones in garden as this can be another attraction for slugs and snails
  General sickness – weight loss, poor appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea	Â

For more information on protecting your dog from lungworm check out the “Be lungworm aware” initiative at www.lungworm.co.uk.