Parasite That Can Kill Dogs Found Near Lake Mead
Summary
Signs of a parasite that can be deadly to dogs have been found around Lakes Mead and Mohave. The risk of infection is reportedly low, as researchers did not find infected snails in the area despite finding parasite eggs in local wildlife.Key Facts
- The parasite, known as Heterobilharzia americana, can cause a disease in dogs called canine schistosomiasis.
- This parasite was found along the Colorado River, marking its spread beyond the Gulf Coast and southern U.S. regions.
- Researchers from the National Park Service tested 1,300 freshwater snails but found no infected snails in Lakes Mead and Mohave.
- Parasite eggs were found in raccoon feces, indicating wildlife in the area is affected.
- Raccoon feces samples showed the parasite's presence in the area, including near Lake Mead marinas.
- The habitat for the host snails is limited in Lakes Mead and Mohave, which suggests a lower risk of dogs becoming infected there.
- As of now, no dog cases have been reported in the Las Vegas–Lake Mead area, though the condition may be underdiagnosed.
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