Community

Puppy’s lucky escape from deadly parasite

Published

8 years ago

June 13, 2016

Lungworm is a ‘hidden killer’: Liesl contracted the deadly parasite when she was just a puppy

A PUPPY from Pembroke recently had a lucky escape from a deadly and potentially fatal parasite.

Miniature dachshund puppy Liesl was diagnosed with lungworm, or Angiostrongylus Vasorum, which is spread by slugs and snails who carry the lungworm larvae.

Dogs become infected when accidentally, or purposely, eating these garden pests, which can happen when dogs rummage through undergrowth, eat grass, drink from puddles or outdoor water bowls, or when slugs and snails are picked up on pet toys.

There have even been cases reported where dogs have contracted the parasite from just eating the slime of an infected slug.

Dog owners are warned to be extra vigilant due to snails and slugs becoming more prevalent as the weather starts to turn warmer in the summer months.

Once inside the dog’s system, the parasite travels through the body, eventually ending up in the heart. If the infection is left untreated, the dog’s health can rapidly deteriorate, resulting in death.

Symptoms of lungworm can vary, but they often include coughing and other breathing difficulties, bleeding, general sickness and in some cases, sudden death without any visible signs of the infection.

Lungworm treatment can result in a full recovery, but preventative products are available to protect your pet.

Liesl’s owner, Jill Barclay, is calling on other local pet owners to remain vigilant of the signs and symptoms of lungworm and to discuss preventative treatment with their vets if their pets are not currently protected.

Dogs of all ages and breeds can become infected, but younger dogs seem to be more prone to picking up the parasite.

Jill said: “Liesl developed a persistent cough and was gagging frequently so we initially thought that she had swallowed something.

“The coughing continued for a couple of weeks before I took her to the vet. Initially the vet suspected she had sustained some damage to her throat and prescribed an antiinflammatory.

“When she showed no improvement, she was booked in to have a general anaesthetic so that the vet could insert a probe into her airway to see if anything could be seen. “When Liesl was admitted for the scope to look at her throat, the site of her pre-op blood test did not clot and this then alerted the vets as it is a symptom of lungworm.

“They immediately tested her blood for the lungworm and this showed positive, concluding that she had picked up the deadly parasite.

“She was prescribed an intensive course of Panacur for a week, during which time the cough gradually subsided. Her ‘sisters’, Slinky and Belle, were examined too but fortunately they both tested negative for lungworm.

“This was a total surprise as we worm Liesl regularly but have since found out that not all products prevent lungworm.

“I had heard of lungworm but I was certainly not aware of how serious it could be or that it was as common as it is.”

“She is only 18 months old now, so obviously was a very curious little monkey when she was a puppy. I never witnessed her consuming a slug but I knew she had a tendency to pick up strange things in the garden, such as leaves.

“Liesl really did have a lucky escape as the disease was caught early on, but I have heard of other dogs that have died from lungworm.

“What’s even worse is lungworm is easily preventable but most dog owners aren’t aware of that. After my experience I tell everyone about it to avoid anyone else going through the experience we had. Fortunately for us the outcome was positive.”

There are currently 150 registered cases of lungworm in dogs across south Wales with one in five vet practices noting at least one case of the parasite, but it is important to note that many lungworm cases go unreported.

Evidence which has been collected from the Royal Veterinary College has confirmed that the lungworm parasite has now spread across the entirety of the UK from its initial home in Wales and southern England.

Cats can become infected with another type of lungworm. However, infections are much more rare and the outcome tends to be not as severe as in dogs.

Mark Bossley, Chief Vet at the UK’s leading animal charity Blue Cross, said: “We regularly advise dog owners of the dangers of lungworm because, sadly, we see so many cases every year.

“It is a hidden killer so we urge dog owners to talk to their vet about preventative treatments and be vigilant with their dogs when in the garden or on walks.”

In light of recent news surrounding the prevalence of the parasite in the UK, it is important to be aware that lungworm prevention should remain a top priority for Welsh dog owners

Community

Pembrokeshire embraces future with new e-bike scheme

Published

19 mins ago

April 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL, under the chairmanship of Thomas Baden Tudor, has announced an exciting new initiative aimed at boosting sustainable transportation across the region. The council has introduced a “pay as you go” electric bike (E-Bike) service, now available in Haverfordwest, Fishguard, Goodwick, and Tenby as part of a 12-month trial that commenced on 8th April 2024.

The scheme, managed by Zeus Mobility, features the Zip bikes—electrically powered bicycles designed to make cycling less strenuous and more accessible to a broader demographic. Each location will start with 10 E-Bikes, with plans to increase the fleet to 50 by summer. The service will include three main charging stations and numerous satellite bays for convenient access and returns.

Priced competitively, the E-Bikes can be hired for £3.00 for the first hour, with subsequent time billed at 5p per minute. Daily and weekly rates are also available, offering users more flexibility for longer trips. The bikes are aimed at reducing reliance on motor vehicles, promoting healthier living, and contributing to national decarbonisation targets.

Councillor Tudor tested the new bikes himself, describing the experience as “brilliant fun for the whole family” and encouraging all residents and visitors to give them a try. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the council to offer eco-friendly travel options that align with environmental objectives.

To use the E-Bikes, riders need to download the Zipp Mobility app, which allows for bike unlocking, ride tracking, and payment. The app also provides information on bike locations, parking bays, and cycling routes within the county.

Funded by a £150,000 grant from the Swansea Bay and South West Wales Metro, the project focuses solely on this E-Bike trial, aiming to make Pembrokeshire a leader in sustainable travel. For further details on hiring and operating the E-Bikes, residents can visit the Cycle Pembrokeshire webpage or contact the team directly via email at [email protected].

Community

Miracle pup finds her forever home after heart-wrenching journey

Published

38 mins ago

April 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AERIAL, a remarkable six-legged spaniel, has captured hearts worldwide, culminating in her adoption this week. Found abandoned in a Pembrokeshire car park and famously nicknamed after Disney’s Little Mermaid due to her unique condition, Ariel’s journey from despair to joy is nothing short of miraculous.

In September 2023, the then 11-week-old puppy was discovered outside a B&M store in a neglected state. Suffering from severe physical anomalies including two extra hind limbs and an additional vulva, Ariel faced daunting challenges. A subsequent medical examination revealed a more complicated internal scenario: a missing kidney and a malformed pelvis that jeopardised her mobility.

Despite the grim prognosis, Ariel’s plight touched many, leading to a worldwide fundraising campaign that raised approximately £15,000. These funds enabled her to undergo critical surgeries at Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital, Somerset, where surgeons successfully removed the surplus limbs and preserved her four functional ones.

“Both procedures went well, and remarkably, Ariel was walking and eating by the next day,” explained Mikey Lawlor, founder of Greenacres Rescue, where Ariel was rehabilitated. “It was crucial that we avoided any post-operative infections, but she’s been in the best hands,” he added, reflecting on the complexities of her care.

Ariel’s recovery was supported by numerous vet visits, specialised surgeries, and extensive physiotherapy. Her resilience and endearing character garnered media attention globally, from radio and television appearances to newspaper features, highlighting her inspirational battle for a normal life.

“We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Ariel has been officially adopted,” announced a recent post by Greenacres Rescue. “Her journey of transformation from a discarded pup to a beloved family pet has been extraordinary.”

The post also extended a heartfelt thank you to June, Ariel’s dedicated foster mother, whose relentless support was pivotal during the rehabilitation process. “June’s care and energy have been instrumental in Ariel’s recovery,” the rescue centre noted.

Surgeon Aaron Lutchman, who led Ariel’s medical team, remarked on her progress, “She’s bounced back and is a happy little dog. We hope she goes on to lead a fabulous life.”

As Ariel embarks on this new chapter with her adoptive family, her story remains a profound testament to the power of community support and the unwavering spirit of animals overcoming adversity. Greenacres Rescue encapsulates this sentiment in their message, “Ariel is symbolic of everything we stand for—love, hope, and the chance for a new beginning.”

For further updates on Ariel and other rescue stories, follow Greenacres Rescue on their social media platforms.

Community

Burned down hotel to be used for social housing

Published

1 day ago

April 19, 2024

Bruce Sinclair Local Democracy Reporter

A SCHEME to build 38 affordable and social housing units on the site of the fire-ravaged former Cleddau Bridge Hotel, Pembroke Dock is expected to be backed by senior Pembrokeshire councillors next week.

Members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, meeting on April 22, are recommended to support a contract with developer Castell Group Ltd for the mix of affordable homes and social housing units at the site, with the actual contract details expected to be discussed in a private and confidential session.

A report for members ahead of the meeting says: “The potential development site on the former Cleddau Bridge Hotel site, Pembroke Dock has been up for sale for some time, and its purchase by Castell Group Ltd (‘Castell’) is now imminent.

“Following completion of their purchase, Castell will submit an application for planning consent to develop the land for affordable and social housing. It would see the development of a high-profile site with visual impact on surrounding areas that has sat dormant for many years.”

Castell has approached the housing service to determine whether there is an interest in working with them to bring forward the development as a housing site, the report says.

Castell Construction Ltd, the delivery arm of Castell, specialises in the construction of affordable / social housing, typically for registered social landlords across south Wales.

An initial proposal says the development, if backed, would see 12 one-bedroom flats, 15 two-bed houses, five three-bed, two four-bed, and four two-bed bungalows, the report adding: “This site would help towards both the council’s 300 new home target and also Welsh Government’s 20,000 new homes target.”

It adds: “The proposal by Castell Construction Ltd is for a development programme of 18 months following planning permission being secured. Castell Construction Ltd estimate commencing the development in March 2025, which would mean completion in autumn 2026.”

Delegation of the decision to enter into the works contract to the Director for Social Services and Housing is sought, and Cabinet is also being asked to delegate the decision to proceed with the land acquisition to the Assistant Chief Executive.

The development package would be part-funded from the housing revenue account, the remainder from the Social Housing Grant and/or second homes premium for affordable housing if it becomes available for the Housing Service to use in this manner.

The proposals would be subjected to an as-yet unsubmitted planning application; if granted Castell Construction Ltd hopes to start the development in March 2025, finishing in autumn 2026.

In 2023, an unrelated application by a different applicant, to demolish the remnants of the hotel and replace it with a care home was approved.

In a prime location at one of the entrances to Pembroke Dock the former Cleddau Bridge Hotel has been derelict since a fire in March 2019, which brought emergency services from as far afield as Ammanford, Aberystwyth and Swansea.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service previously said the fire was started by a deliberate act.

Following a fire investigation, Dyfed-Powys Police said they found there to be insufficient evidence to identify a suspect.