Dog owners must ensure they provide a regular worming programme for their pets to protect them from lungworm, a vet has said.
Sean Wensley, senior veterinary surgeon at the PDSA, explained that people can speak to their vet about the risk of lungworm in specific areas and offer advice accordingly.
He explained that the recent weather conditions have led to an increase in slugs and snails, which cause lungworm in dogs, a disease that can be fatal if left untreated.
"If you are concerned that something may be wrong it is important to contact your vet, as without treatment lungworm can be fatal," Dr Wensley said.
"A regular worming programme is also vital, so speak to your vet to ensure that your dog is receiving the necessary protection."
Symptoms of lungworm include difficulty breathing, lethargy, vomiting, coughing and nosebleeds.
The vet said owners who try to control slugs and snails should remember that pellets can be poisonous for cats and dogs, so must use them with great care.
Another option he suggests is encouraging hedgehogs into the garden, as they will eat slugs and snails every night.
