Lungworm has become a common issue in dogs all across the globe. A type of parasitic worm called Angiostrongylus Vasorum lives and breeds in the heart and blood vessels of dogs and causes several respiratory concerns. Dogs that usually stay outdoors have a higher risk of getting infected with lungworm. This is because they consume the larvae found in snails, slugs and other insects. If not treated quickly, this disease can be serious and may lead to severe life-threatening problems.

lungworms in dogs

Lungworm Symptoms in Dogs

The following are symptoms that can aid you in knowing whether or not your furry pal has lungworm disease or not.

  • Abnormal Clotting of Blood
  • Breathing Issues
  • Appetite Loss
  • Coughing
  • Lethargic
  • Minor cuts taking longer than normal to stop bleeding
  • Reduction in Weight
  • Vomiting

Lungworm Causes

Lungworm can affect your buddy in many ways than you can think of. Here are some of the ways how lungworm can be caused.

  • Drinking water or eating things that are infected with larvae worms
  • Coming in contact with another animal who happens to be infected with lungworm
  • Worm infected dogs with puppies can infect their little ones through licking

Lungworm Diagnosis

A vet will thoroughly examine your pet and run some tests to see if your furry pal has lungworms or not. Diagnosis is done by:

  • Thorough physical examination
  • X-Rays (Chest)
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Various Other Tests (if needed)

Lungworm Prevention in Dogs

Preventing lungworm from affecting your pal is much better than treating it. Here’s what you should do to prevent lungworm from affecting your canine friend.

  • Limit your dog’s outdoor timings and at the same time watch over him while he’s outside
  • Provide him clean and fresh drinking water
  • Feed him healthy and nutritious food
  • Frequent vet visits are essential

Lungworm Treatment in Dogs

Curing your pal of lungworm disease depends on the stage of infection. The higher the stage, the harder it will take to treat it. Hence, early detection is highly essential.

There are numerous topical and Oral treatments that help to treat lungworm, but in some cases, even that is not enough and surgery is required. Canines, especially the adult ones, have a low rate of recovery due to the damage to their organs such as the heart, kidneys and also the presence of lungworm in the body. However, with the correct treatment method, success can be achieved in this regard.

While early detection of lungworm disease is helpful in reducing the difficulty in curing such a condition, it is always advisable that you stress on the preventative ways so that you can lower the risk of your pal getting lungworm infected. Stay safe and keep your pet safe. That’s always been the motto, hasn’t it?