Your Local Independent 189

Page 22 Christmas 2024 AD SALES 01204 478812 PETS TO ADVERTISE CALL 01204 478812 WHILE it’s not the most glam- orous topic, it’s important to ensure that your dog is protected from lungworm. Lungworm is a parasite that can cause coughing and potentially life-threatening clotting problems in our canine friends. Dogs can catch lungworm from eat- ing infected slugs and snails, or by coming into contact with their slime. While lungworm can infect dogs of all ages and breeds, younger dogs may be more susceptible. Symptoms of lungworm can include unusual bruising, changes in sight, weight loss, depression or lethargy, vomiting or diarrhoea, excessive bleeding from minor cuts, wounds or nose bleeds, breathing problems - including coughing and tiring easily- and seizures. If your dog is displaying any of these symptoms, contact your vet prac- tice immediately. It’s worth noting that some dogs don’t show signs of a lungworm infection straight away, so if you have reason to believe that your dog has eaten slugs or snails or may be infected, contact your vet practice straight away. Lungworm prevention can be easily incorporated into your dog’s usual pre- ventative treatment plan, and you can discuss their individual level of risk with your veterinary team. For advice on how often to worm your dog and the preventive products available, please contact your local vets’practice. Is your dog protected? TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CONTACT OUR TEAM ON 01204 478812 158 Chorley New Road, Horwich BL6 5QW. Tel: 01204 694004 53 Chorley Road, Westhoughton BL5 3PD. Tel: 01942 818845 www.pikemoorvets.co.uk • Locally owned • Highly professional practice • Dedicated to caring for all your pets