When it comes to keeping your pet healthy and happy, preventative care is crucial. This is especially true when it comes to heartworm. This parasite is unfortunately quite common, and if it isn’t effectively treated, it could lead to serious illnesses and even death.  As such, it’s important to coordinate with your veterinarian to create an annual heartworm prevention program. To garner a better understanding regarding this matter and why it’s so crucial, consult the guide below. 

What Is Heartworm?

Heartworm is a very dangerous parasite that is spread through the bite of a mosquito. The severity of the condition is classified into three types: Class I, Class II, and Class III. Dogs with Class I heartworm typically do not display any symptoms of the disease. Class II is identified through persistent coughing or an inability to exercise for long periods of time. Finally, pets with Class III heartworm exhibit anemia, fainting, an inability to exercise at all, and in severe cases, heart failure. Other symptoms associated with heartworm include high blood pressure, severe weight loss, and difficulty breathing.

How Can You Prevent Heartworm?

As with any medical condition, the sooner heartworm is diagnosed, the more likely it is that a treatment will be successful. That’s why it’s important to schedule annual appointments with your veterinarian for heartworm testing. Even if you stick to a monthly protection plan, it’s still possible for your dog or cat to get infected. The only way to be completely sure they’re safe is to have them tested on an annual basis.

Additionally, ask your veterinarian to recommend a brand of food or medication designed specifically for heartworm prevention. Discuss the proper feeding or dosing guidelines thoroughly to ensure complete protection. Even a single missed or late dose can greatly increase your pet’s likelihood of contracting heartworm. 

To keep your animal safe, it’s crucial to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a prevention plan. At Pet Health Clinic in Daleville, VA, they work hard to ensure each of their clients understand the steps needed to protect against heartworm. If you need help keeping your furry friend safe, they are here for you. Visit them online to learn more about the services they provide, and call (540) 992-4550 to schedule a heartworm test today.