HEARTWORM DISEASE

Heartworms are parasites that live in the heart and blood vessels of the lungs of dogs. Dogs become infected by being bitten by a mosquito carrying microfilaria (microscopic larval or baby heartworms). The microfilaria migrate from the bite to the heart and grow into adult worms that are four to six inches long. Those adult worms produce microfilaria that are picked up by a mosquito while biting and can be transmitted to another dog.

A dog with heartworms may appear to be in good health or may show symptoms such as coughing, weight loss, tiring easily, or just not feeling well. Heartworm disease can be detected by a blood test. Most dogs that have heartworms can be successfully treated to rid them of the parasite, but the treatment is expensive and may carry some risks to the health of your pet.

Fortunately, a medication is available to prevent dogs from getting heartworms if bitten by an infected mosquito. It is recommended that all dogs be given heartworm prevention on a year round basis. Puppies under six months of age can be started on prevention without testing; dogs over six months old are tested beforehand. Tables (plain or chewable) can be given once a month or once daily.

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