You won't see lungworm coming

Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) is a potentially fatal parasite of dogs*. The adult worms live in the heart and major vessels of infected dogs, and their larvae hatch in the lung tissue; where they can cause breathing problems such as coughing. Lungworm can also result in some more unusual symptoms such as blood clotting issues and neurological problems, as well as more general symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy¹. Untreated, lungworm can be fatal.

As more cases of lungworm are reported around the UK, many vets are urging dog owners to take the growing threat of lungworm seriously and take steps to protect their dog against this potentially fatal parasite.

The great news is that lungworm is avoidable. It can be prevented with a regular monthly worming regime, available from your vet.

There are two important things to remember. Firstly, not all wormers are effective against lungworm, so talk to your vet about a suitable product. Secondly, lungworm prevention must be given monthly. Worming every three months (which is often advised for other parasites such as round and tapeworm) will not be effective at preventing this parasite.

Some people find it useful to set a monthly reminder to stay on top of this – it is definitely better to be safe than sorry when it comes to this nasty and potentially fatal parasite*.

For further information on preventing lungworm, see our guide to lungworm treatment and prevention.

Slugs and snails can carry lungworm larvae, and dogs become infected when they eat these infected molluscs, which can happen intentionally or accidentally when dogs rummage through undergrowth, eat grass or drink from puddles or outdoor water bowls. Once swallowed, the larvae travel to the dog’s heart where they develop into adult lungworms. Frogs can also carry the larvae, posing an additional risk to dogs.

Although any dog can become infected with lungworm, studies have shown that younger dogs are more likely to be affected, possibly due to their more inquisitive nature. However all ages of dog, and any breed, can be affected by lungworm.

Dogs that are known to eat slugs and snails are also considered at high risk, but remember slugs and snails can be tiny and you may have no idea that your dog has eaten one.

Infected dogs will pass lungworm larvae out in their faeces. This then infects more slugs and snails, and these infected molluscs can then pass lungworm on to other dogs.

Foxes can also become infected with lungworm, and play a part in spreading the parasite around the country. Research suggests that the percentage of foxes in the UK that are infected has more than doubled in the last ten years to 18% - this research showed that prevalence in foxes was as high as 50% in the South-East.²

With people travelling in the UK with their pets, and foxes roaming the towns and countryside, the parasite is likely to continue to spread around the country.

Lungworm used to be found only in certain ‘hotspots’ in the UK, mainly in the South of England and Wales. However, study data shows that lungworm is spreading throughout much of the UK^2,3, and it is now also endemic in Central England, with an increasing number of cases being reported in Northern England and Scotland.

You can see whether cases have been reported in your area by visiting this handy lungworm map. But remember, it is important to be vigilant against lungworm wherever you live in the UK.

A survey by researchers at the Royal Veterinary College in London found that one in five vet practices in the UK have reported at least one case of lungworm in a dog.³

This lungworm map shows cases of lungworm that have been reported across the UK, making it clear that much of the country is affected–it is now widely accepted as being endemic across much of the UK.

The signs of lungworm can be easily confused with other illnesses, so it is important to consult your vet immediately if your pet displays any of the following¹:

- Changes in behaviour – depression, lethargy or seizures

- Breathing problems – coughing or tiring easily

- General sickness – weight loss, poor appetite, vomiting or diarrhoea

- Poor blood clotting – for example excessive bleeding from minor wounds, nose bleeds, bleeding into the eyes or paleness around the eyes and gums indicating -  possible anaemia

Dogs can show just one of these symptoms, or a combination of them, or may even show no symptoms at all in the early stages.

The good news is that treatment for lungworm is available and if it is caught early enough, most dogs will make a full recovery.

If you suspect your dog may be infected, book an appointment with your vet immediately.