Cases of deadly parasite lungworm in and around Cheshire

It is spread by the slime of slugs and snails, who contain the infective lungworm parasite and it is thought that thousands of dog owners could be walking unprotected pets.

After the damp weather across Cheshire in May, experts are suggesting that slug and snail activity could explode in the UK.

Dogs can contract lungworm in the garden, by eating slugs or snails or grass, on walks, rummaging through undergrowth, and even by drinking from water bowls or puddles.

A total of 174 cases of lungworm have been reported within a 50 mile radius of Cheshire.

The Mypet&I map shows one case in Winsford, one in Holmes Chapel, five across Knutsford, Mobberley and Alderley Edge, two cases in between Northwich and Davenham.

The Mpet&I map displaying lungworm cases in-and-around Cheshire

Vets are concerned about the number of dogs that are not adequately protected against the parasite.

A poll by Elanco Animal Health revealed that only 21 per cent of dog owners surveyed had given their dog a lungworm preventative treatment in the past month.

Another survey showed that 42% of dog owners are not aware of what lungworm is or how it can infect dogs.

Dr Bryony Tolhurst, a behavioural ecologist at the University of Brighton, said: “The slime of slugs and snails can contain the infective lungworm parasite that can cause disease in dogs.

“With the unusually damp weather the UK has been experiencing this year, slugs and snails are more active, and lungworm larvae can survive for up to two weeks in their slime, potentially exposing dogs to the parasite.”

Vets are warning that the signs of lungworm are not always obvious, and puppies can be especially likely to eat slugs and snails, due to their inquisitive nature.

The infection is much easier to prevent than it is to cure, experts say.

Elanco’s new campaign – Open your eyes to deadly lungworm – warns owners of the effect parasite can have on their dogs.

Luke Gamble, veterinarian and campaign supporter, said: “I care passionately about this campaign because so many dog owners are unaware of the dangers of lungworm.

“The key thing is understanding that over-the-counter medications can’t protect dogs against lungworm, so it’s vital owners speak to their vet to make sure their dog is continuously protected.”

Lungworm has been spreading year on year within the UK, with 2,871 cases reported across the country, according to Elanco’s Lungworm Map, which pet owners can use to check how many cases of lungworm are in their area.