Dogs are being infected on walks in Ireland amid 'death' warning to owners

The Irish Blue Cross is warning pet owners about the growing risk of lungworm infection in dogs, following a spate of cases at their Veterinary Clinic. If left untreated, the potentially fatal parasite can cause severe health complications or even death.

As frogs, slugs and snails spread lungworm, dogs can become infected when playing outside, eating grass, drinking from puddles, or encountering surfaces contaminated by slime from slugs and snails.

"Once inside the body, the parasite travels through the bloodstream and can lead to serious issues such as breathing difficulties, bleeding disorders, seizures, and, in severe cases, death," a Blue Cross statement says.

As slugs thrive in mild, damp conditions and warmer, wetter climates support parasite survival, milder winters and summers could lead to increased year-round exposure to slugs.

Laura Mock, Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross said: "Lungworm is a silent threat to dogs in Ireland, but the good news is that it’s preventable. Pet owners can protect their dogs by speaking to their vet about the right parasite control and staying alert to the outdoor risks.

"We also advise against leaving toys and bowls outside where slugs and snails can crawl over them. While some infected dogs may show no signs at first, common symptoms include persistent coughing or breathing difficulties, unexplained bruising or bleeding, low energy, reluctance to exercise and in severe cases, seizures, or collapse.”

Veterinary Surgeon at The Irish Blue Cross, Ciara Sweeney continued: “One of the five recent cases we had was Nancy, the fifteen-year-old Beagle. After losing weight very quickly, and developing laboured breathing, Nancy’s concerned owner brought her into our clinic.

"We did a blood test and quickly established Nancy had lungworm. Thankfully, we were able to treat her in time, but some dogs weren’t so lucky, so we are appealing to all dog owners to seek immediate veterinary advice if they notice any of the common signs of lungworm.”

For more information, pet owners can contact their local veterinary practice or visit www.BlueCross.ie