If you live in South or Central Texas, you’ve probably heard of kissing bugs. What many people don’t realize is that these insects can also transmit a parasite that causes Chagas disease in dogs — and the risk is higher here than most other parts of the country.

Chagas disease (caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi) is not new to Texas, but awareness among pet owners is still catching up. Here’s a straightforward overview of what you actually need to know.

How Dogs Get Infected

Kissing bugs (triatomine bugs) feed on blood at night. After feeding, they often defecate. The parasite lives in the bug’s feces, not its saliva. Dogs usually become infected when:

  • Bug feces enter a bite wound or mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, nose), or
  • The dog eats an infected kissing bug (this is believed to be a common route, especially in kennels or outdoor dogs).

Wildlife such as raccoons, opossums, and woodrats can carry the parasite and serve as reservoirs, which helps keep the cycle going in our area.

How Common Is It in Texas Dogs?

Studies in Texas have found infection rates ranging from about 10% to over 50% in certain groups of dogs, with higher numbers often seen in outdoor dogs, working dogs, and multi-dog kennels. Texas A&M researchers have documented cases across many counties, and Bexar County has appeared in both canine and human reporting data over the years.

The good news: many infected dogs never show obvious symptoms. The concerning part: when the disease does progress, it often targets the heart.

Acute infection can be mild or go unnoticed. Chronic disease may develop months or years later and can include:

  • Lethargy or reduced exercise tolerance
  • Coughing
  • Abdominal swelling (from fluid buildup)
  • Fainting or collapse during activity
  • Irregular heart rhythms
  • In some cases, sudden death

Because the signs can look like other heart conditions, Chagas is often underdiagnosed unless a veterinarian specifically tests for it.

Diagnosis and Treatment Realities

Blood tests that look for antibodies to the parasite are available (the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory offers testing). A positive result means the dog has been exposed, but it does not always predict how sick the dog will become.

There is currently no consistently curative treatment for Chagas disease in dogs, and no vaccine. Some experimental or off-label protocols (such as combinations involving amiodarone and itraconazole) have been studied, but results are mixed. Most veterinary care focuses on managing heart-related symptoms and supporting quality of life if the disease progresses.

Practical Prevention Steps for San Antonio–Area Owners

Prevention is currently the strongest tool we have. Useful steps include:

  • Seal gaps around doors, windows, and baseboards so bugs can’t easily enter the house or kennel.
  • Keep outdoor areas tidy — remove wood piles, brush piles, and animal nests close to the house or dog runs.
  • Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights at night (kissing bugs are attracted to light).
  • Bring dogs indoors at night when possible, or use well-screened/sealed outdoor enclosures.

If you find a kissing bug, Texas A&M’s Kissing Bug Community Science Program accepts submissions for research — it’s a helpful way to contribute data for your area.

Bottom Line

Chagas disease is a real issue for dogs in our part of Texas, but panic isn’t necessary. Awareness, reducing exposure, and partnering with your veterinarian for testing when appropriate go a long way.

If you have questions about supporting your dog’s overall health or want to discuss products that fit into a prevention plan, stop by the store or give us a call. We’re happy to help you sort through practical options.