According to the New York Post, a dog-killing parasite has been discovered for the first time in the Colorado Rover in southern California. The parasite, called Heterobilharzia americana, is a flatworm known as a liver fluke. It has previously been identified in Texas and other states but has since migrated west, according to the outlet.
Dogs catch the parasite when they wade or swim in freshwater that contains infected snails
These flatworms induce schistosomiasis in dogs, which is potentially lethal. Dogs catch the parasite when they wade or swim in freshwater that contains infected snails. “Dogs can die from this infection, so we want to promote public knowledge that it exists. “If you’re swimming in the Colorado River with them, your pets are in danger,” UC Riverside nematology professor Adler Dillman said.
After discovering that numerous dogs infected with a parasite had visited the Colorado River banks between March and August 2023, the researchers analyzed 2,000 snails. The researchers stated that their findings indicate “a broader distribution of the parasite than previously reported.” Our findings have ramifications for public health, veterinary medicine, and biodiversity conservation, and will help to create effective management techniques to prevent the spread of this emerging infectious illness.” “This significant finding marks the westernmost record of this endemic North American schistosome in the US. The identification of the parasite in an area with a documented history of canine schistosomiasis emphasizes the persistence and potential expansion of this parasitic threat,” the researchers said.
Liver Fluke: Symptoms of Heterobilharzia Americana infection
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Coughing
- Increased gut sounds
- An increase in drinking and urination
- Other signs include: hematochezia and hypoxia or anorexia
Young, large breed, hunting, or herding dogs are particularly vulnerable to infection.