LAUSR

Schistosomiasis in dogs is caused by Heterobilharzia americana, a trematode associated with gastrointestinal signs or asymptomatic infection. The disease occurs in the southeastern and Gulf coast regions of the United States. The life cycle involves freshwater snails. The cercariae released from the snails penetrate the canine skin, develop into adult parasites, and lay eggs that migrate to the mesenteric venules and are excreted in feces. Hypercalcemia is a common finding in dogs with schistosomiasis; it is believed to result from the granulomatous reaction to the eggs. Other common biochemical abnormalities include hyperglobulinemia, elevated liver enzymes, azotemia, and hypercholesterolemia.