Dog owners have been warned that slugs and snails could prove fatal to their pets. The warmer wetter weather we have been experiencing has led to a rise in molluscs. However, many people are unaware that they can harbour the parasite lungworm. This parasite can prove fatal when eaten by dogs. Although dogs do not normally choose to eat slugs and snails they can easily get into food or onto toys and be ingested. Dog owners have been warned to look out for symptoms of bleeding and fits as well as coughing, lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness and paralysis. If their dogs do experience any of these they should seek advice from a vet as soon as possible.
