Lungworms
LUNGWORMS (Angiostrongylus, Aleurostrongylus, Crenosoma, and Oslerus)
There are a few types of lungworm seen in UK pets, but the most important is lungworm in dogs, specifically Angiostrongylus. Whereas most of the parasites that we’ve discussed here will cause mild or moderate disease and are more of a concern because they can make us ill (or just because they’re disgusting), Angiostrongylus can KILL dogs, so it’s an important parasite to be aware of.
Adult Angiostrongylus in dogs live in the HEART and in the large blood vessels of the LUNGS. They release microscopic larvae into the airways which the dog coughs up, swallows, and then passes in their poo. These larvae are eaten by slugs or snails, so dogs can become infected when they eat the slug or snail. Angiostrongylus does not infect people.
Lungworm in dogs can cause severe disease and even death in infected pets. The most common symptoms of lungworm infection in dogs are respiratory: COUGH, or BREATHLESSNESS after exercise. Some dogs may develop BLEEDING problems and have excessive or uncontrolled bleeding from even small wounds or bruises.
If your dog has a cough that’s getting worse or won’t go away, or if you notice unusual bruises or spots on your dogs skin or gums then see your vet. In most cases it won’t be lungworm, but if it is then early detection makes treatment easier.
Angiostrongylus cases are increasing in the UK. It used to be found mostly in small pockets in southern England and in Wales but it has now spread across the UK including northern England and Scotland.
Lungworm infection can be PREVENTED with a monthly spot-on or tablet medication. Most of the products that prevent lungworm will also prevent roundworms and fleas, and some may prevent ticks as well. Have a chat with your vet or vet nurse to decide which treatment will suit your dog best
ALL dogs in the UK are potentially at risk of contracting lungworm, especially as we all travel and often take our pets with us.
Dogs most at risk are those that are known to eat slugs and snails (gross!), or those who eat grass or drink from puddles, have outside feeding bowls, or have outdoor toys. You can reduce your dog’s risk of infection by bringing feeding bowls and toys indoors, but this won’t completely eradicate the risk so regular prevention is the key to protecting your dog.
Other lungworms that can affect dogs in the UK include Oslerus, which is found in the larger airways of the lungs, and Crenosoma, which is more common in wild foxes. Oslerus occasionally causes moderate to severe disease in young puppies or in dogs kept in crowded and damp conditions.
Neither Oslerus nor Crenosoma can infect people.
Cats can be infected with a lungworm called Aleurostrongylus which is found in the airways of the lungs and causes moderate respiratory disease.
Like lungworm in dogs, Aleurostrongylus is passed from cat to cat via slugs or snails. Cats may also be infected by eating an animal which has eaten the slug or snail, so cats who hunt are more at risk of infection.
Many of the prescription-strength spot-on or tablet worming medications will treat and prevent lungworm in cats, so discuss your concerns with your vet if you think your cat is at risk.
IN A NUTSHELL: Lungworm can cause severe disease and death in dogs, this can and should be prevented with a monthly treatment to keep your dog safe
