A VETERINARY practice is warning Cumbrian dog owners to be extra vigilant after diagnosing a case of the deadly parasite lungworm, which caused life-threatening symptoms in a young dog.

Lola, a five-month-old French Bulldog, was brought into Old Hall Vet practice in Appleby-in-Westmorland by her worried owners. She was increasingly losing weight and developed a persistent cough.

Helen Gould, Veterinary Surgeon at Old Hall Vets, said blood tests revealed a lungworm infection.

Slugs and snails carry the lungworm larvae and dogs can become infected when they accidentally or deliberately ingest these common garden pests while rummaging through fields and undergrowth, eating grass, drinking from puddles or outdoor water bowls or possibly even after swallowing their slime.

Paul Huntley, Lola’s owner, said: “It was very distressing to see Lola become skinnier and her breathing became more and more rapid, especially as she was so young she was very vulnerable and became very ill. When I found out she had contracted lungworm, I was shocked as I only thought lungworm was present in the south of England and not in Cumbria.”

Initial symptoms are often hidden, but the consequences of the parasite can be severe. The disease can affect dogs of any age, but puppies are especially at risk, and dogs, including puppies, have lost their lives. However, it can be easily prevented with a monthly treatment.

Speak to your vet about a monthly parasite prevention plan.

Visit www.lungworm.co.uk/map to look for areas where it has been confirmed.