Heartworm in Dogs and Cats
In various parts of Eastern and Southern Europe, mosquitoes carrying heartworm larvae are common. When your dog or cat is bitten, the larvae can develop into adult worms. Dogs are usually more severely affected than cats. Heart and lung issues may arise, and in severe cases, the infection can be fatal.
Because treatment becomes difficult and risky once the worms are mature, it’s crucial to prevent infection by deworming in time to kill the larvae.
Deworming advice:
- Holiday of 1–28 days: deworm on the day of return and again 1 month after returning.
- Holiday over 28 days: monthly deworming during your stay, plus on return and one month later.
Read more in our article: Heartworm in Dogs and Cats.
Fox tapeworm in dogs and cats
This parasite is primarily found in foxes in Central and Eastern Europe, but has been reported in the UK as well. Dogs and cats can get infected through contact with rodents or contaminated soil. While animals often show no symptoms, in humans it can cause serious health problems.
Deworming advice:
- Holiday of 1–28 days: deworm on the day of return and again 1 month after returning.
- Holiday over 28 days: monthly deworming during your stay, plus on return and one month later.
Hookworms in dogs and cats
Hookworms (Ancylostoma) are mostly found in subtropical areas, including Southern Europe. Infection occurs through larvae entering via the skin or mucous membranes, or through ingestion. A less harmful variant (Uncinaria) is found in the UK.
Adult hookworms live in the small intestine and can damage the lining. Severe infection may cause bloody diarrhoea and anaemia. In other countries, hookworms can be life-threatening.
Protect your pet by deworming monthly during stays in high-risk regions.
Lungworm in dogs
Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) is becoming increasingly common across Europe, including the UK. Dogs can become infected by eating or coming into contact with slugs carrying the larvae.
The worms can settle in the pulmonary arteries and heart, leading to symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, or even respiratory distress.
Prevent infection with monthly deworming. If already infected, treat weekly for 4 weeks. Symptoms like coughing may persist for a while.
Eye worm in dogs and cats
Eye worms are transmitted by (fruit) flies and are now present in large parts of Europe, including the UK. Infection may cause severe eye inflammation and, in some cases, permanent vision loss.
Treatment consists of two deworming sessions spaced 7 days apart, along with manual removal by a veterinarian.
Travel prepared
Want to protect your dog or cat from holiday worms? Start deworming in time and follow the right schedule. This will help avoid unpleasant surprises during and after your trip. Also check out our travel tips for taking your pet on holiday.
Do you have questions about deworming or choosing the right product? Feel free to contact us at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.
