There has been a robust advertising campaign recently regarding the dangers of lungworm. Although it is important that owners should be aware of lungworm the recent advertising has been designed to frighten owners.
Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) infection is a serious and potentially fatal disease but there are some things to consider.
1. Cases of lungworm are still uncommon. There has been a slight increase over the years. The number of cases vary from year to year and have been low in this area these last few years.
2. Nearly all cases of lungworm can be successfully cured if the symptoms are recognised and treatment is started early enough.
3. Lungworm can only be picked up from contact with slugs and snails (or their environment). Only some slugs and snails carry the parasite.
4. Young or inquisitive dogs are more likely to be interested in slugs and snails and are more at risk than older, less inquisitive dogs. Dogs that regularly eat slugs and snails are most at risk.
5. Spring and autumn when slugs and snails are most numerous are the times of greatest risk. It is important that vets and owners are aware of the different symptoms possible to ensure early diagnosis and treatment.
There are three main symptom types:
1. Progressive coughing and breathing problems with exercise intolerance. This is the commonest form of the disease.
2. Bleeding disorder. Owners may notice bleeding in the whites of the eyes or gums. Also soft swellings may be noticed over the body. This is a less common form of the disease but is more difficult to diagnose and can become serious if not treated quickly.
3. Neurological disorder. This is the least common and is again hard to diagnose as there is a wide range of symptoms such as behavioural changes, paralysis, fits and back pain.
In all these cases prompt treatment is usually curative. There are several treatments available and are medications that are regularily already used to treat other worm infections.
At present there is only one product, Advocate, that used monthly can prevent lung worm.
This product treats fleas, mites and roundworm as well as lungworm but does not treat ticks or tapeworm.
This product can be used by any owner who feels their dog is at higher risk of contracting lungworm or anybody who just feels safer using it.
However it should also be noted that tick born diseases are becoming gradually more common as well as lung worm and this product does not treat ticks.
This is a difficult area that needs an individual decision. Please contact your vet if you need further advice.
