Common or serious wolf parasites.

Wolves are susceptible to a variety of internal and external parasites. These include at least 24 species of nematodes (roundworms), 21 species of cestodes (tapeworms), nine species of trematodes (flukes), heartworms, and three species of acanthocephalia (spiny-headed worms). Wolves are also susceptible to being infested by fleas, ticks or mites. Below is a list of the most common or serious wolf parasites.

Heartworm: Mosquitoes are the major vector of dog heartworm, Dirofilaris immitis. Once the worms end up in a canine, they will mature and grow on the right side of the animal's heart and on its pulmonary arteries. Initial symptoms include detectable heart murmurs and pulse deficits. As the problem progresses, the animal's heart may become enlarged and if the the infection becomes severe (up to 200 worms have been found in some animals), blood flow will be blocked. Heart failure may result from a major infection. Heartworm is thought to be one of the major causes of the red wolf decline that occurred in the southeastern United States during this century. Heartworm has been found in in free ranging wolves in Minnesota, and it has also occurred in captive wolf populations in the southern United States. It has not been reported in Canada or Alaska, as the mosquitoes that carry it prefer warmer climates. There are medications that can be administered to dogs and captive wolves that can prevent the disease, and it is recommended that all dogs and captive wolves living in areas where heartworm occurs be on the preventative medication.
Tags: wolf disease, wildlife