Experts urge greater surveillance of exotic parasites
Experts are reporting rising numbers of worms and worm-like parasites in imported dogs
Veterinary practices in England and Wales are being urged to submit samples of suspected exotic worms and parasites to the APHA for identification.
The call from the European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCAPP) UK and Ireland and the APHA comes in response to rising numbers of worms and worm-like parasites in dogs being imported from southern and eastern Europe.
Among the parasites being reported include the eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda, skin worm Dirofilaria repens and nasal pentastomid Linguatula serrata.
In a letter to Vet Times (Vol.52 Issue 10), Ian Wright, head of ESCAPP, said: “The APHA and ESCAPP UK and Ireland are collaborating to encourage diagnosis and reporting of these parasites and to map the distribution of cases. This will help inform their distribution and prevalence. As well as helping to identify where autochthonous transmission may be occurring.
“We encourage veterinary practice to submit any samples that may be one of these parasites to the APHA for identification. Samples should be posted to the APHA Carmarthen Veterinary Investigation Centre. Sample submissions must be accompanied by full clinical history to qualify for free testing.”
More details on how to submit samples are available on the APHA website.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
