THE WELSH Assembly is to launch an awareness raising campaign in order to curb the increase in Hydatid disease. The disease, which is caused by tapeworm, is on the increase in certain parts of Wales.

The disease is the result of a parasitic infestation and it can be harmful if passed on to humans. It is believed that dogs that feed or sometimes merely come in to contact with infected sheep carcasses are at particular risk.

The Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Dr Christianne Glossop, has launched a campaign aimed to promote the benefits of dog worming.

She commented: ‘Hydatid Disease is a dangerous disease of humans. The tapeworm that causes the disease is becoming particularly common in dogs in parts of Wales.

‘We are launching an awareness campaign to help reduce incidence of this disease, which can be achieved by correct dog worming.

‘We are urging dog owners to speak to their vets about worming treatment and frequency.

Owners can also help by ensuring dogs are not allowed to come into contact with dead sheep, and that they are fed on cooked dog food.’