Found in all 50 U.S. states, heartworm is a disease that affects dogs and cats and is serious enough to be a priority in every pets regular wellness plan.  Here’s a closer look at heartworm and how to work with your local veterinarian to keep your canine companion safe.

What Dog Owners Should Know About Heartworm

The Disease & Its Symptoms

Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes. The parasitic worm undergoes two molts in the body of the mosquito and two more in the body of its final host. Once the parasite gets transferred to the canine, it navigates through the animal’s tissues towards its destination: the heart. There it grows in length and size, increasing pressure on the heart and blood vessels and causing non-reversible damage to the heart and lungs. Heartworms produce offspring within the hearts of their hosts, which they release into the animals’ bloodstreams.

The parasites live for five to seven years inside dogs and cause a range of health problems. Since heartworms can spread to the lungs, an infected dog may develop a heart murmur or cough. The animal can also experience fatigue and a decreased appetite as well as a swollen belly from fluid retention in the abdomen.

Because heartworms clog the heart and blood vessels to prevent the lungs’ blood oxygenation abilities, the risk of cardiovascular failure is high. Caval syndrome, in which blood flow to the heart is blocked by worms, is another extremely deadly possibility. 

Prevention & Treatment

Prevention is by far the best form of treatment. Canines should undergo annual heartworm testing so any symptoms can be dealt with before they begin or worsen and preventive medications will be prescribed to give monthly or an injection will be given biannually to PREVENT this deadly disease. In the south, mosquitoes are a problem year round, therefore your dog is at risk of contracting heartworms at any time of the year.  Eliminating standing water and planting herbs repulsive to the insects such as mint and basil help them stay away from both dogs and people.

Get your dog tested for heartworm every year at Lillian Veterinary Hospital to stay ahead of the disease. The veterinarians at this Lillian, AL, pet clinic provide a full suite of services, including puppy vaccines, spaying and neutering, and laser surgery. Call the animal hospital that has served the region for over 22 years at (251) 962-2304 to make an appointment or learn more about the veterinarians online. Get the latest pet care tips and discount news on Facebook.