A Milford Haven veterinary practice has issued a stark warning to dog owners after treating a puppy with lungworm.

The 16-week-old puppy, named Bella, was taken to All Pets Vet Care after her owners noticed she had bloodshot eyes.

She was treated by vet Billa Schleicher, who noticed a curved structure when she shone a light into Bella’s eyes.

Billa said: “I looked closely and realised that there were several lungworm larvae there.

“It is extremely rare to see them in eyes. We were lucky because in lots of cases they are present in the lungs, heart, or even joints of the brain.

“She has been treated now and is doing fine.”

Billa said lungworm can also prevent blood from clotting, and can be fatal if not treated.

She also warned that the parasite is becoming more common in Pembrokeshire.

“Years ago, there was no lungworm in this area at all, but this is the second dog we have treated for it in the last few months,” she added.

“Carmarthen has been a hotspot for it in recent times and it is definitely becoming more common here.”

Lungworm is carried by slugs and snails and can be passed onto dogs through contact — with dogs under two-years-old the most vulnerable.

Billa recommended that owners visit their nearest veterinary service to discuss a drug which can eradicate the problem.

For more information on lungworm, visit www.allpetsvet care.co.uk or www.lungworm.

co.uk.

All Pets Vet Care is currently holding free educational nights in its surgery at The Old Docks Office, off Hamilton Terrace.

The next event is on Wednesday, May 5, titled Pensioner Pets.

Following that, Pesky Parasites will take place on Wednesday, May 19.

Both events begin at 7pm.