The French heartworm Angiostrougylus vasorum is a parasitic nematode that lives in the pulmonary vessels and the heart of canids. Transmission occurs through ingestion of infected intermediate hosts, such as snails and slugs. There are increasing reports of autochthonous infections in our neighbouring countries. Clinical signs usually relate to the respiratory system, coagulopathy and the neurologic system. Anorexia, gastrointestinal dysfunction and weight loss are also frequently observed. Diagnosis is not straightforward, but abnormalities detected by thoracic radiography, echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan can be helpful. Eosinophilia, regenerative anemia and thrombocytopenia with or without abnormalities in the coagulation profile can occur. Definitive diagnosis is made by demonstrating the parasite in the cerebrospinal fluid, in faeces (Baermann technique) and/or in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Treatment consists of anthelmintic drugs and supportive care if necessary
