DOGS are at risk of deadly infection after 250 cases of Lungworm were reported within 50 miles of Swindon

There have been three cases in Swindon, five in Salisbury, one in Purton and Melksham. 

Lungword can be fatal to dogs with nine per cent of dogs that get infected will die. 

Company Bayer has set up a map to monitor lungworm cases and it shows how much a concern it is in each area around the country.  

What is it?

Lungworm is a parasite that can cause serious health problems in your pet and can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated.

According to Vets4Pets, infected dogs and foxes spread the parasite into the environment via lungworm larvae released in their faeces.

Slugs and snails then ingest the larvae while feeding.

Other dogs and foxes can become infected with lungworm when they swallow these slugs/snails or potentially slime.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of the infection include: coughing, changes in breathing or struggling to breathe, going off food, upset stomach with vomiting and/or diarrhoea, weight loss, tiredness, unexplained or excessive bruising, pale gums and bleeding

How to prevent your dog catching lungworm

Regular worming treatments

Picking up your dog’s faeces quickly.

Removing toys and bowls from the garden overnight so they are not exposed to slugs and snails

Changing the water in water bowls frequently

Lungworm cannot be transmitted to humans.

More information can be found on the Vets4Pets website and you can check the map.