Dangerous Parasite Detected in Dog Parks – Stay Safe

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By Chloe Hart | News Alerts Column | The Pet Standard

Dog parks are usually a haven of off lead freedom, sniffs, sprints, and muddy paws. But a new warning has pet owners across the UK paying closer attention to where their pups are playing.

In recent months, veterinary professionals and local councils have reported a sharp rise in cases of a dangerous parasite found in several dog parks nationwide.

The culprit? Angiostrongylus vasorum more commonly known as lungworm a potentially fatal parasite that can affect dogs of all breeds and sizes. It’s time to take a closer look at where this parasite is lurking, how to protect your pooch, and what treatments could cost if your dog is unlucky enough to be affected.

What Is Lungworm?

Lungworm is a parasitic worm that infects dogs through ingestion usually by eating infected slugs and snails, or even just from licking contaminated surfaces or toys. Once inside the dog’s system, the larvae travel through the body, eventually settling in the heart and lungs. This is not just a nasty inconvenience; lungworm can be deadly if left untreated.

Dogs infected with lungworm may show symptoms such as:

• Persistent coughing

• Lethargy or reluctance to exercise

• Bleeding disorders (e.g. nosebleeds, bruising)

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting and diarrhoea

  
  

Some dogs may show no symptoms at all until the infection becomes severe which is why prevention is key.

Where Has Lungworm Been Found?

According to recent data from The Royal Veterinary College and several regional councils, cases have been concentrated in South East England, the Midlands, and urban parks in Manchester, Bristol, and London.

However, experts warn that lungworm is spreading rapidly due to climate change, increased slug and snail populations, and warmer, wetter weather the ideal breeding ground for parasites.

Dog parks are of particular concern because of shared water bowls, dog toys, and the general exposure to wildlife and moist, grassy areas. Some local councils have now posted warning signs at known hotspots and are advising owners to be vigilant.

How Much Could Lungworm Treatment Cost?

If caught early, lungworm is treatable but it’s not cheap. Treatment often involves a combination of medications, supportive care, and multiple vet visits. Here's a rough breakdown of potential costs in the UK:

• Initial consultation: £40–£70

• Diagnostic tests (blood, faecal, x-rays): £100–£250

• Medication (antiparasitics + antibiotics): £30–£100

• Follow-up and supportive care: £50–£200

  
  

Altogether, treatment could cost anywhere between £150 and £600, depending on the severity and location of the infection. In serious cases requiring hospitalisation, costs can exceed £1,000.

Important note: Many standard pet insurance policies do cover lungworm but only if your dog is up to date on preventive treatment. So, skipping that monthly tablet could end up being a very expensive mistake.

Prevention: What Can You Do?

Fortunately, protecting your dog from lungworm is both easy and affordable. Here are a few practical steps to reduce the risk:

1. Use Preventive Treatment Regularly Ask your vet for a monthly prescription-only dewormer that targets lungworm. These cost around £5–£10 per month, depending on your dog’s size. Popular products include Advocate, Milbemax, and NexGard Spectra.

   
   

2. Avoid Shared Water Bowls Don’t let your dog drink from communal bowls at parks or trails. Bring your own fresh water and a collapsible bowl instead.

   
   

3. Limit Slug and Snail Exposure While it’s nearly impossible to avoid every slug or snail, you can reduce your dog’s exposure by not letting them play in overly damp, shaded areas especially after rain.

   
   

4. Clean Toys and Bowls Regularly Wash any outdoor toys, water bowls, and even paws after a trip to the park.

   
   

5. Know the Signs Be familiar with the early symptoms of lungworm. If your dog shows signs of illness especially coughing or bruising get them checked as soon as possible.

   
   

Final Thoughts

While the idea of a hidden parasite lurking in your local park sounds like something from a veterinary horror story, the truth is: lungworm is preventable. The recent spike in reported cases serves as a timely reminder to stay informed, stick to monthly worming, and take a few extra precautions when heading out for a play session.

With preventive treatments starting from as little as £5 a month, the cost of peace of mind is a small price to pay compared to the risk of a serious infection. So, keep the leads handy, but let’s not forget the parasite protection, too.

Your dog’s tail will keep wagging and that’s what matters most.