Lungworm

Adult worms are found in nodules of about 2mm in size in the trachea and bronchi. The method of transfer is not known, the tails of the worms can be seen on bronchoscopy, protruding from the nodules.

Many infected dogs go unnoticed but severely affected dogs have a harsh cough and may loose weight.

Mostly young puppies are affected and are common where a number of dogs are kept together.

Treatment is usually difficult and surgical removal of the nodules my be necessary.

Update

Garden snail and slug populations have flourished during the damp conditions. But they can harbour a dangerous parasite.
When eaten by dogs and cats, the lungworm carried by the slugs and snails can infect the bloodstream and cause coughing and breathing problems. In some cases the condition can prove fatal.