NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Twiggy, a hound dog found running loose on Johns Island, is recovering after multiple rare, three-foot kidney worms were found during a spay-neuter surgery.
Dr. Margie Morris, senior veterinarian at the Charleston Animal Society, was performing a routine spay when a red tube-like object was seen through the incision. “Shocked when it turned out to be a worm that seemed to go on forever,” Dr. Morris said.
Six worms were pulled from the dog.
Dr. Morris explained that treatment for kidney worms, or Dioctophyme renale, is to remove them and treat any damage that may have been caused while in the abdomen or kidneys.
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Dr. Lucy Fuller holds up worm | Charleston Animal Society
Animal advocates say kidney worms commonly enter a dog or human’s body through raw fish or frogs – but finding them is extremely rare. Once inside the body, the worms move to the kidneys and can eventually cause kidney failure.
Twiggy is currently recovering in an indoor-outdoor pen at the Charleston Animal Society.
“This is something that doesn’t happen every day,” said Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Lucy Fuller, who plans to write a case study on Twiggy. A veterinarian who specializes in in parasites helped with the case and asked to study samples of the worms found in Twiggy.
“We are glad Twiggy is back outside enjoying the fresh air, we can’t wait until she finds a new, loving home,” Dr. Morris said.
Charleston Animal Society said it is currently dealing to overcrowding and is offering free adoptions on all adult dogs.
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