Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially deadly condition caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart and lungs that can lead to severe complications like heart failure, lung damage, and other organ problems.
Now that the weather is getting warmer we’re giving you a guide to understanding heartworm disease, identifying symptoms, risks, treatments, and prevention.
What Are Heartworms?
Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) are long, thread-like worms that can grow up to 12 inches in length. They are transmitted to dogs through a bite from an infected mosquito, transferring microscopic larvae into the dog’s bloodstream. These larvae then travel to the heart and lungs, where they mature into adult heartworms causing inflammation, heart and lung damage, which can ultimately lead to heart failure.
How Do You Know Your Dog Has Heartworms?
Heartworm disease is often asymptomatic in the early stages, making it difficult to detect without proper veterinary care. As the worms grow and the disease progresses, your dog may develop a dry cough, fatigue, difficulty breathing, which can eventually lead to weight loss and heart murmurs.
Risks and Prevention
Since heartworm disease is passed through infected mosquitos, areas that have a larger mosquito population–i.e., warm and humid climates–have a higher risk for dogs to contract heartworms. Reducing your dog’s exposure to mosquitoes can also help lower their risk.
Avoid letting your dog outside at dawn or dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Use mosquito repellents that are safe for pets, and ensure your home is screened in areas where your dog spends time.
The most common and effective method of heartworm prevention is administering a monthly chewable or topical medication. These medications, such as Heartgard, Interceptor, or Trifexis, kill the larvae before they can develop into adult heartworms. It’s important to administer the medication consistently and on schedule.
Even if your dog is on a preventive medication, it’s crucial to have them tested for heartworms annually. A simple blood test can catch any early infections before they progress. Vaccinations and Regular Vet Visits: Maintaining regular veterinary checkups and keeping up with vaccinations can help catch any health issues early, including heartworm infections.
Understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing the treatment options are all key steps in safeguarding your dog’s health. Always consult your veterinarian to discuss the best prevention plan for your dog and ensure they live a long, healthy, and heartworm-free life.
