AS WELL as fleas, worms and ticks there are other, less common parasites to consider.

Of these probably the most important in the UK is lungworm (also known as French heartworm). This microscopic parasite, which is transmitted by slugs and snails, is relatively rare but unlike most other parasites, it can be fatal to dogs.

The worm causes problems when the larvae migrate inside the dog to the lungs and heart, and this can cause symptoms including breathing difficulties, coughing, bleeding problems, haemorrhages on the gums and general lethargy, weight loss and depression.

Thankfully there is a very effective treatment for lungworm which is available from vets, and if you suspect any of these symptoms, particularly if your dog likes to eat slugs or snails, you should take him to your vets as soon as possible as if left untreated lungworm can be fatal.