The imported rescue dog – parasite risk and control

The imported rescue dog - parasite risk and control

Increased importation of pets in the face of expanding global parasite distributions is increasing the risk of pets infected with exotic parasites entering the UK. Rapid recognition of clinical signs, effective use of preventative treatments and screening tests in imported dogs are vital, both to improve prognostic outcomes for infected dogs and limit parasite spread and zoonotic risk. A systematic approach to exotic parasites is required in the imported dog, summarised in ESSCAP UK & Ireland’s “four pillars”.