ABSTRACT
Fox lungworm of dogs found in terminal bronchiols. Dogs infected by ingesting infected snails/slugs. Natural hosts: foxes and raccoons. PPP= 3 weeks. Dx: Larva (275 µm long) passed in feces or transtracheal wash. Larva: long esophagus (1/2 body length) with pointed tail. Larva appears C-shaped with a pointed head compared to larvae of Filaroides. Adult Habitat: Lumen of the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles. Similar Species: The five nematode larvae that can be found in dog feces include: Strongyloides stercoralis, Filaroides osleri, Filaroides hirthi, Crenosoma vulpis, and hatched Ancylostoma larvae. Range: World. Clinical Signs: Exercise-induced cough. Chest radiographs may reveal a marked bronchiolar interstitial pattern. Tx: No approved drug. Effective Tx include: Panacur® (fenbendazole: 50 mg/kg, PO, q 24h for 3 to 7 days)
