Several cases of a parasite that can kill dogs have been reported in Bristol and the surrounding areas.
An interactive map showing the number of confirmed cases of lungworm infections in dogs has been created and currently shows 184 cases within 50 miles of a central Bristol postcode.
Lungworm infections lead to serious health problems for dogs, and can even kill them if left untreated.
The main carriers of the parasite are slugs and snails found in abundance in the UK outdoors.
Experts say dogs often eat slugs, snails and insects by accident and sometimes on purpose – Labradors which are known to eat everything without thinking spring to mind.
Rummaging through mud or drinking puddle water, or even just picking up a dog toy which has been left outside can see a dog ingest a slug or a snail by accident.
Click here to see the full map on the website.
Symptoms of Lungworm – how to spot it
Breathing problems:
Coughing, Tiring easily
Poor blood clotting:
Excessive bleeding from even minor wounds/cuts
Nose bleeds
Bleeding into the eye
Anaemia (paleness around the eyes and gums)
General sickness:
Weight loss
Poor appetite
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Changes in behaviour:
Depression
Lethargy
Seizures (fits)
According to Vets4Pets, a fifth of dog owners whose pet has had a case of lungworm has admitted that they do not know what it is.
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