Warning to dog owners over slugs and snails as creatures carry 'fatal parasite'

dailyrecord.co.uk:

While out in your garden there are some things that your dog should avoid eating, including certain plants and fruit as it could be harmful for them.However, there are other things to look out for which you might not think of right away such as common garden creatures like slugs and snails.

According to animal experts at tails.com the risks of your pup eating slugs or snails "could prove to be fatal" due to a parasite that they carry.Slugs and snails can carry lungworm, a type of parasitic worm that infects dogs.

Unlike parasites like ringworm, lungworm can live in the blood vessels of the lungs and heart of those it has infected and can be fatal if left untreated, according to the Kennel Club.The tails.com experts explain: "Not only can these creatures do damage to the vegetation in your garden, but they can also carry lungworm, which is a parasite that lives in the blood vessels of the lungs and heart. "Dogs can become infected when they start sniffing around damp areas where there are lots of slugs and snails."However, the experts say that the greatest risk of infection comes from dogs directly ingesting any slugs or snails or "licking the trail of slime they leave behind." Pets can also become infected if slugs and snails come into contact with your dog's feeding bowl.They continue: "If left undiagnosed or untreated, then lungworm can prove to be fatal, so do not hesitate to contact your vet if you suspect your dog has come into contact with a slug or a snail."Unfortunately lungworm isn't the only 'parasite' that you will have to look out for as spring continues to set in, according to the experts.The tails experts add: "Harmful parasites such as fleas and ticks can be a hazard for your dog all year round, but spring