Canine lungworms are a parasitic infection that lives inside your dog's lungs rather than his digestive tract, Several types of parasites can infect the lungs, such as capillaria, filaroides and paragonimus. According to the Pet Place website. Lungworms develop after your dog inhales larvae (eggs) from their environment, or eats snails and slugs. Lungworm infections cause unpleasant symptoms such as a chronic cough. Medication is needed to clear up the infestation.
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Weight Loss
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According to the BBC News website, weight loss is a symptom associated with lungworms. All parasites have the ability to leach nutrients from the body, and lungworms are no exception. If your dog has a lungworm infestation, he will gradually lose weight and become lethargic.
Chronic Cough
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Chronic coughing is another symptom commonly associated with a lungworm infestation. The parasites irritate the lining of the lungs, which causes your dog to cough continually. This cough may even interfere with his ability to sleep at night. It may also become worse when your dog exercises. The typical treatment for a lungworm infection is a parasite medication followed by drugs to reduce inflammation in the lungs.
A chronic cough also can indicate other health problems, such as kennel cough.
Digestive Problems
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Another symptom associated with a lungworm infestation is digestive problems. Your dog will have an upset stomach, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea. This causes her to lose interest in daily activities. Some dogs will have several symptoms while others will only experience one or two symptoms.
Paralysis
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According to the BBC News website, lungworm problem in dogs can also result in paralysis. This symptom can come on suddenly. If your dog is unable to walk, take him to the emergency veterinary clinic right away.
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