“Karel” is a male Mexican Hairless. He was found as a stray when he was still a puppy. Unfortunately his previous owners did not microchip him and he thus could not be reunited with them. After the right protocol was followed I adopted him myself. We grew very fond of each other very quickly.
Shortly after I met “Karel” he started coughing. Being a vet I immediately took x-rays. It became clear that it was much more complicated than just a normal lung infection when I saw the nodule in the thorax caused by Spiro Cerca Lupi worms. Spiro Cerca is a worm that dogs pick up by eating beetles, lizards, bird faeces etc. The worms have devastating effects on the oesophagus and aorta and can lead to sudden death if an aorta aneurism develops. Unfortunately with this condition by the time owners notice any clinical signs it can be too late. Some of the earlier clinical signs include coughing or vomiting straight after meals.
Spiro Cerca is a disease that can be difficult to diagnose and if it has progressed by the time of definitive diagnosis it can be very hard or even impossible to treat. It is however relatively easy to prevent. Monthly deworming with the right dewormer (ask your veterinarian) can prevent this devastating disease.
I was fortunate that “Karel’s” Spiro Cerca condition was diagnosed very early. After weekly treatment for 6 weeks he was cured and has since been on the preventative program for almost 4 years.
“Karel” and I are inseparable and it would have been devastating to lose him to such a horrible disease. I want to urge you to not be complacent and ask your veterinarian about Spira Cerca Lupi during your next visit.
