Veterinarians are raising concerns about a dangerous brain parasite that is hitching a ride on a species of invasive snails. This parasite, known as rat lungworm, poses a significant threat to both dogs and humans. The parasite-infested Apple Snail, originally from South America, has been steadily spreading through the desert southwest and the eastern seaboard. Recently, it has been causing alarm in North Carolina.
Dogs are particularly vulnerable to this parasite, with symptoms starting from weakness in the hind legs to paralysis and even brain damage. Puppies are especially at risk due to their curious nature and tendency to put anything in their mouths. Pet owners in the southern US are being warned about the infected Apple Snails as they can transmit the rat lungworm to dogs when they rummage through undergrowth, drink from puddles, eat grass, or explore their surroundings.
State wildlife authorities in North Carolina recommend destroying the Apple Snail’s egg masses by crushing or scraping them into the water using any nearby object like a stick, rock, or boat paddle. It is crucial to ensure that the eggs sink as this prevents them from hatching. Furthermore, residents are advised not to handle the snails or their bright pink egg masses, as they contain toxins that can cause skin and eye rashes.
In recent news, North Carolina has identified the invasive Apple Snail along the Lumber River, which can be fatal to humans and devastating to river life. This species has previously invaded Europe, Asia, and other US states, such as Hawaii. This sighting marks the first recorded instance of Apple Snail presence in North Carolina. It joins the Hammerhead worm as another slimy invader that has spread along the US eastern seaboard in recent years.
Dr. Alfred Mina, a veterinarian from Hawaii, has reported several cases of rat lungworm infection in dogs each month. The parasite can be treated if caught early. Dr. Mina recommends using common heartworm medications like moxidectin or Pro-Heart, which are effective in preventing or treating rat lungworm. However, misdiagnosis can occur, leading to ineffective treatments and allowing the parasite to spread.
One pet owner from Hawaii described her dog’s experience with rat lungworm as terrifying. The dog experienced constant stress and had great difficulty walking. Treatment involved corticosteroids, antibiotics, dewormer, and pain medication. While most cases recover when caught early, some may take longer if the infection is advanced.
The US Geological Survey advises pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts to be cautious and watch out for Apple Snails in freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and ditches. In addition to rat lungworm, these snails can carry other harmful parasites like blood flukes and intestinal flukes. Blood fluke infections can persist for years if not properly treated, leading to severe symptoms like abdominal pain, enlarged liver, blood in the stool or urine, and difficulties in urination.
Apart from posing health risks to humans, the Apple Snail is also destructive to local farming and native habitats. Their grazing habits can cause damage to crops and native plants, and they have even been observed feeding on amphibian eggs. In places like the Philippines, Apple Snails have become a major pest in rice fields, resulting in complete crop loss in heavily infested areas.
Wildlife experts in Hawaii and North Carolina hope that residents will assist in eradicating this invasive species. If suspected Apple Snails or their egg masses are spotted, residents are advised to photograph and record the location using the Aquatic Nuisance Species Reporting Tool. The egg masses can then be destroyed by crushing or scraping them into the water. It is important to avoid contact with bare skin to prevent rashes from the toxins found in the eggs. Adult snails can be destroyed by crushing or freezing them.
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