The parasite Heteropenia americana is fatal to dogs. (Representative picture)

A parasite that kills dogs has been discovered for the first time in a Colorado rover in Southern California, the Washington Post reports. new york post.This parasite is called Heteropenia americana, is a type of flatworm commonly known as liver fluke. It was previously found in Texas and some other states, but has now spread westward, The media further stated. These flatworms can cause schistosomiasis in dogs, which can be fatal. Dogs become infected with the parasite when they wade or swim in fresh water where infected snails are present.

Adler Dillman, professor of nematology at UC Riverside, told UC Riverside News: “Dogs can die from this infection, so we want to increase public awareness of this infection. If You’re putting your pets at risk by swimming with them in the Colorado River.”

Researchers tested 2,000 snails on the banks of the Colorado River between March and August 2023 and found that several dogs infected with the parasite had visited there.

The researchers say their findings indicate “that this parasite is more widely distributed than previously reported. Our findings have implications for public health, veterinary medicine and biodiversity conservation, helping to develop effective control strategies to Prevent the spread of this emerging infectious disease.”

The researchers said: “This major discovery marks the westernmost record of this North American endemic schistosomiasis in the United States. The identification of this parasite in an area with historical records of canine schistosomiasis underscores the continued threat of this parasite existence and potential expansion.”

sign Schistosoma americana Infect:

• lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• lose weight
• diarrhea
• Vomit
• cough
• Increased bowel sounds
• Increased drinking and urination

Other signs include: blood in the stool and loss of appetite or anorexia

Young large hounds or collies are particularly susceptible.