Lifetime health & preventative care
Lungworm: UK & Irish risk and veterinary prevention
Understand Angiostrongylus vasorum without assuming every wormer covers it.
A specific parasite
This page focuses on Angiostrongylus vasorum, a canine lungworm that can cause serious disease. It is different from intestinal worms and from mosquito-transmitted heartworm. Dogs can become infected through ingesting infected slugs or snails, sometimes accidentally. Other lungworms exist and need veterinary consideration.
Location affects the assessment
UK distribution is patchy and local risk changes. Do not assume a postcode, urban home or Scottish location makes infection impossible. In England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, ask your practice about local experience and your dog’s behaviour. Owners in the Republic of Ireland should also discuss local risk with their veterinarian; this page does not provide a county-level prevalence estimate.
Possible illness
Coughing, breathing changes, reduced stamina, unexplained bruising or bleeding, and neurological signs may occur. These signs have other possible causes and need assessment, not a diagnosis from a checklist. Tell your veterinarian about exposure and the exact parasite product used.
Risk-based prevention
Avoid opportunities to eat slugs and snails, and put away outdoor bowls and toys when not in use. Discuss a licensed preventative appropriate to your dog and location. Some common worm products do not cover this parasite, and treatment and prevention are not interchangeable label claims. Do not adjust intervals or combine products without advice. Ask whether testing is needed if there are symptoms or uncertain treatment history.
Continue your care plan
Parasites & Preventative Healthcare · Keeping my dog healthy · New symptoms: find the right next step
Evidence and review
General information, not diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Sources include veterinary professional guidance, veterinary charities and relevant regional parasite organisations. Clinical recommendations need individual veterinary interpretation.
About this guidanceReview details and sources
Evidence and review
Reviewed 2 October 2026 · Review sooner if advice, distribution or requirements change.