A PARASITE that can be fatal to dogs has been reported in and around Cheshire West.

Cases of lungworm are spreading across Britain and Ireland and pet owners are being warned to stay vigilant to prevent their four-legged friends from becoming infected.

In the Chester area, there are 115 reported cases in a 50 mile radius, this number is slightly lower (107) for Ellesmere Port and Neston, and slightly higher (117) for Frodsham.

Reported cases in the Chester area show in central Chester (CH1) and Farndon (CH3), four cases are shown in Neston (CH64) and two near to Frodsham (WA7).

Chester and District Standard: A map of reported cases compiled by My Pet & I.A map of reported cases compiled by My Pet & I. (Image: My Pet & I)

Lungworm can be picked up through your dog ingesting slugs or snails which carry the parasite. These slugs and snails become carriers through feeding on the infected faeces of another dog or a fox.

Whilst ingesting infected slugs and snails is the main route of transmission, dogs can also pick up the parasite through their infected slime trails.

Problems associated with lungworm for dogs can include: coughing, changes in breathing or struggling to breathe, going off food, upset stomach with vomiting and/or diarrhoea, weight loss, tiredness, unexplained or excessive bruising, pale gums and bleeding.

The parasite cannot be transmitted from dogs to humans.

Dog owners can prevent their dog from being infected through regular worming treatments; picking up their dogs faeces quickly, preventing any spread; ensuring toys and bowls are not exposed to slugs and snails by taking them in overnight and changing the water frequently.

Lungworm case data is compiled by My Pet & I, where further information and a map documenting recorded cases can be found.