Do You and Your Dog Live in a Lungworm Hotspot?
If you own a dog or are keen to stay informed about canine health, understanding lungworm is essential. This parasite disease has been spreading rapidly across the UK, posing serious health risks to dogs. Awareness of whether you and your dog live in a lungworm hotspot can help you take important preventative steps.
In this article, we explain lungworm, how dogs contract it, why knowing your local risk matters, and how to check for lungworm hotspots in your area. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to keep your dog safe.
Understanding Lungworm and Its Risks
Puppy owners should be particularly vigilant, as lungworm is a parasite called Angiostrongylus vasorum that infects dogs and some wild animals such as foxes. Its lifecycle involves snails and slugs, which carry larvae that dogs can accidentally ingest.
Previously rare in the UK, lungworm is now considered an emerging disease with rising cases nationwide, especially in southern and urban regions. Infection can cause severe respiratory issues, coughing, weight loss, and in untreated cases, it may be fatal. Ordinary wormers do not prevent lungworm, so specific treatment and prevention are crucial.
How Do Dogs Contract Lungworm?
Lungworm larvae develop in slugs, snails, and sometimes frogs. Dogs become infected by inadvertently ingesting these creatures, contaminated toys, or via licking surfaces where infected slugs or snails have left larvae behind. Activities like picking up sticks, eating grass, or rolling in contaminated areas also increase risk.
It’s important to regularly check and clean your dog’s toys, bowls, and outdoor areas to reduce exposure. Avoid letting your dog eat slugs or snails if possible, and keep your garden slug-free where you can.
What Is the Lungworm Hotspot Map and How to Use It?
The UK lungworm hotspot map is an interactive tool where you can enter your postcode to see reported lungworm cases nearby. This helps owners be aware of risks in their neighbourhood and avoid high-risk areas during walks.
Despite being initially concentrated in the south and east, lungworm is spreading across the UK, including Midlands, northern England, and Scotland. The map is regularly updated by vets and pet health organisations to reflect new cases and trends.
Why Is Knowing Your Area’s Risk Important?
Understanding if you live in a lungworm hotspot helps you stay alert to symptoms like coughing or breathing difficulty in your dog, and inform your vet early if you notice concerns. Early veterinary treatment improves survival chances.
Even if your area has had few reported cases, lungworm can quickly establish itself in new locations due to infected wildlife. Preventative medication, tailored to lungworm prevention, should be used year-round in known or suspected hotspots.
Latest Veterinary Advice on Lungworm Prevention
Consult your vet about the best lungworm preventive treatments suitable for your dog’s lifestyle and local risk. Products recommended often differ from standard intestinal wormers and may need monthly administration during high-risk seasons.
Managing your dog’s environment by removing slugs and snails, keeping outdoor toys clean, and avoiding risky areas on walks can significantly reduce the chances of infection.
Additional Resources and Support
For those considering getting a dog or finding Cocker Spaniel puppies or other breeds, responsible breeding and sourcing from reputable breeders is essential to start your pet’s life healthily.
Use trusted online tools like the lungworm hotspot map and consult your local vet regularly to ensure your dog’s ongoing health and protection against lungworm and other diseases.
