Heartworms are a serious and potentially fatal disease affecting dogs and cats. These parasites are transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Therefore, pet owners must be aware of heartworm disease and take preventive measures to protect their furry friends.

 

According to the American Heartworm Society, heartworm disease has been diagnosed in all 50 states, and it's estimated that over one million dogs in the United States are infected. That's a staggering number, but the good news is that heartworm disease is preventable with the right treatment and care.

 

What Is Heartworm? Understanding The Disease And How it Spreads

Heartworm is a parasitic disease caused by the mosquito-borne parasite Dirofilaria immitis. When an infected mosquito bites an animal, it transmits the heartworm larvae into the bloodstream. Over time, these larvae grow into adult worms that live in the animal's heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Heartworm disease is more commonly found in dogs but can also affect cats.

 

Symptoms of Heartworm Disease

The symptoms of heartworm disease vary depending on the severity of the infection. In the early stages, your pet may not show any signs. However, as the disease progresses, your pet may experience the following: 

• Mild persistent cough
• Reluctance to exercise
• Fatigue after moderate activity
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss.
• Swollen belly due to excess fluid in the abdomen

In severe cases, heartworm disease can cause heart failure, lung disease, and even death.

 

Preventing Heartworms: Simple Steps to Keep Your Pet Safe

Preventing heartworms is much easier and less expensive than treating an infected pet. You can reduce the risk of heartworm infection in your furry friend by taking simple steps.

 

Get your pet tested: Your veterinarian can perform a simple blood test to check if your pet has been infected with heartworms. It's important to get your pet tested annually, even if they are on preventive medication.

Use preventive medication: There are several types of medication available that can help prevent heartworm infection. These medications are available in various forms, including pills, topical treatments, and injections.

Keep your pet indoors during peak mosquito season: Mosquitoes are most active during the warm summer months, so it's important to keep your pet indoors during this time or use mosquito repellent products to protect them when they're outside.

Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so removing any standing water around your home or yard is important. This can include bird baths, flower pots, and even puddles.

Keep your pet's environment clean: Regularly cleaning your pet's bedding, toys, food and water bowls can help reduce the risk of heartworm infection.

 

Heartworms are a serious and potentially fatal problem for pets. By taking simple steps to prevent heartworm infection, such as getting your pet tested, using a preventive medication, keeping them indoors during peak mosquito season, removing standing water, and keeping their environment clean, you can reduce the risk of heartworm infection and keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

 

If you have any questions about heartworm prevention or would like to schedule a stay for your pet, please don't hesitate to contact us or book an appointment through our website.