Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

parasites reside in the nasal cavity and upper air passages, producing a mild
cough. Filaroides species produce a tracheal and bronchial infection that tends
to be a kennel-related problem, especially in Greyhounds.
Most dogs with lungworms have mild infections and do not show clinical
signs. Heavily infested dogs (usually under 2 years of age) may have a persistent
dry cough, weight loss, and exercise intolerance.
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, a chest X-ray (not always positive), and
identification of the eggs or larvae in the stool or in respiratory secretions.
Bronchoscopy on a dog with a Filaroides infection may reveal small nodules in
the wall of the trachea. Larvae may be seen peeking out of these growths.
Treatment with Panacur (fenbendazole) is often needed for extended periods
of time.
LUNG FLUKES
The lung fluke Paragonimus kellicotti infects dogs living around the Great
Lakes, in the Midwest, and in the southern United States. Flukes are flatworms
ranging in size from a few millimeters up to several inches (2.5 to 5 cm) long.
The fluke is acquired by eating aquatic snails and crayfish. Cysts develop in the
lungs. Rarely, a cyst ruptures and causes a collapsed lung (pneumothorax).
The safest and most effective agent for treating all species of lungworms
and lung flukes is Panacur. The drug must be given daily for 10 days. Prevent
lungworms by cooking fish and restricting your dog’s hunting forays.
HEARTWORMS
GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES • 63
Heartworms are common in dogs. They are discussed on page 341.