Lungworm in Dogs: Are your pets fully protected before surgery? Advice from Belfast Vets

Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) is a serious and potentially life-threatening parasite affecting dogs. Since 2009, at least 16 confirmed cases have been reported in the Belfast area, including popular dog-walking spots. At Forestside Vets, we want dog owners to understand how lungworm is contracted, recognise the symptoms, appreciate the risks involved with surgery, and know the importance of correct prevention.

What Is Lungworm and Where Does It Come From?

Lungworm is a parasitic worm that infects a dog’s heart and lungs. The parasite’s lifecycle involves slugs and snails as intermediate hosts. Dogs typically become infected by accidentally eating these creatures or through contact with contaminated environments.

In Belfast, popular walking areas such as Ormeau Park, Orangefield Park, Belvoir Forest, and the Lagan Towpath provide ideal habitats for slugs and snails, increasing the risk of lungworm exposure for dogs that frequent these spaces.

Recognising the Signs of Lungworm

Symptoms of lungworm infection can include:

• Persistent coughing

• Difficulty or rapid breathing

• Lethargy and weakness

• Loss of appetite and weight loss

• Unexplained bruising or bleeding

• Sudden collapse or weakness

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, contact Forestside Vets promptly for assessment and advice.

Surgery and Lungworm: Important Considerations

Lungworm infection can affect blood clotting and heart function, which may increase the risk of complications during surgery. It’s important to inform your vet if your dog is not on a current worming programme, so we can recommend appropriate testing or precautions before any surgical procedure.

Lungworm Cases in Belfast

Since 2009, Belfast has recorded at least 16 confirmed lungworm cases in dogs, with many infections linked to dogs visiting green spaces like Ormeau Park and Belvoir Forest. This highlights the importance of effective prevention, especially for dogs spending time outdoors.

Why Monthly Lungworm Prevention Matters

Lungworm prevention requires monthly treatment to be effective. Worming every three months, which works for roundworm and tapeworm, does not protect against lungworm. Only lungworm-specific tablets or spot-on treatments prescribed by your vet and given monthly provide reliable protection.

How Forestside Vets Can Help

• Advice on lungworm prevention tailored to your dog’s lifestyle

• Blood tests recommended if your dog isn’t up to date with worming

• Guidance on reducing your dog’s exposure to slugs and snails in local parks and woodlands

• Support and treatment advice if your dog shows symptoms of lungworm

  
  

Protect Your Dog from Lungworm Today

If you live in Belfast and enjoy walking your dog in areas like Ormeau Park, Orangefield Park, Belvoir Forest, or along the Lagan Towpath, speak to Forestside Vets about the best lungworm prevention options. Early and consistent monthly treatment is key to keeping your dog safe from this dangerous parasite.

Book your appointment at Forestside Vets today to ensure your dog receives the correct monthly lungworm prevention.