The parasitic invasion of areas in the respiratory tract of your dog can mean a mild infection with symptoms of coughing and sneezing, ranging to wheezing and signs of intense respiratory distress. Illnesses like bronchitis, pneumonia and rhinitis are common occurrences when parasites migrate within your pet’s pharynx or bronchi. Further migration throughout other systems can accompany the infection which is why treatment is so important. If your pet has symptoms of a respiratory illness and has regular access to the outdoors where he has exposure to carriers such as rodents or snails, a visit to the veterinary clinic is warranted. Treatment, and the successful resolution of the problem will vary depending on the type of parasite.

Invasion by parasite can cause infection in the respiratory tract in canines in areas such as the trachea, nasal cavity, and lungs. Depending on the severity and location of the infection, complications can become serious if the infection is left untreated.

With some types of parasitic infection, dogs can be asymptomatic. Other instances of the condition may present with mild signs while others show serious symptoms leading up to respiratory distress. Your pet may exhibit some of the signs below.

There are a myriad of parasites that can occupy the airways and respiratory systems of our pets. A few of the well documented types are listed here.

One of the most common and prevalent signs of parasitic infection of the respiratory tract is coughing. The type and frequency of the cough can vary greatly. However, if you notice that your pet is coughing, no matter how intermittent, a veterinary visit is warranted as canines do not normally cough which is indicative that something may need to be investigated.

Your pet could have other signs of being unwell such as lethargy or loss of appetite, or he could be having instances of regurgitation. When you bring your dog to the clinic, be certain to tell the veterinarian the signs you have noticed in your pet as of late that have caused you to become concerned. Advise your veterinarian if your dog has been in a boarding kennel recently, or if your travels or day trips have taken you and your canine companion to areas where wildlife may be present.

Standard testing will be run such as urinalysis and complete blood count, and in the case of a suspected parasitic infection, a fecal analysis will definitely be done because many invasions show their presence with larvae in the feces (and larvae or adult parasitic forms are often in the vomitus if your pet is vomiting).

Depending on the symptoms, clinical signs, and history of your dog, the additional testing could include the following.

The most common form of treatment for a parasitic invasion of the respiratory tract is through oral medication which will be administered from any length of time between a few days to a few months. Some of the medications utilized to eradicate the infection are oxfendazole, albendazole, thiabendazole, levamisole, and ivermectin. Prednisone has been used in addition in some cases where inflammation needs to be addressed. When there are parasitic nodules present, a bronchoscopy may be successful in removal.

Follow-up visits to the veterinary clinic will be necessary because frequent checking for the complete eradication of the parasite is key. It is essential to remove all signs of the infection in order to avoid further complications. Respiratory distress, secondary bronchitis and pneumonia, and even death have occurred because of parasites in the respiratory tract. Adherence to the instructions of your veterinarian, including completion of all medications is imperative. At home, ensure that your canine companion’s living space is clean and free of humidity and dampness. In the future, do not allow free roaming in order to avoid picking up a new parasitic infection via hunting, eating of spoiled food, and exposure to contaminated areas and wildlife.