Dog Lungworm Prevention | Animal Welfare Hub

Angiostrongylus vasorum (French heartworm) is an emerging and potentially fatal lungworm infection in dogs across Europe and beyond. Prevention through regular treatment is highly effective and saves significant suffering.

Key Facts

Angiostrongylus vasorum is transmitted when dogs eat infected slugs, snails, or frog hosts containing larvae
The parasite migrates to the pulmonary arteries and heart, causing respiratory disease and clotting disorders
Clinical signs include coughing, exercise intolerance, and unexplained bleeding that can be fatal
The parasite is spreading northward in Europe likely due to climate change expanding slug habitat
Monthly preventive treatments including milbemycin oxime effectively prevent infection

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with lungworm infection suffer progressive respiratory disease and potentially life-threatening coagulopathy. The suffering is preventable through routine monthly parasite prevention that is widely available and inexpensive. Dogs in areas where lungworm is emerging face increasing risk as they routinely encounter infected slugs during outdoor activities. Education of dog owners in affected regions about the risk and the simple preventive treatment available is a high-impact welfare communication challenge. Vets in expanding risk zones should proactively discuss lungworm prevention with all dog owning clients.

What You Can Do

Ask your vet whether Angiostrongylus vasorum is present in your area and discuss prevention options
Use monthly preventives containing milbemycin oxime in high-risk areas and for dogs who eat slugs
Prevent dogs from drinking from puddles or eating slugs and snails during outdoor activities
Be aware of early signs: coughing, exercise intolerance, unexplained bleeding - seek urgent vet care