If you’re a dog owner, there are a few simple steps you can take to prioritize preventative care like heartworm prevention to help your furry friend avoid infection. Heartworms can spread by a single bite from an infected mosquito, entering the bloodstream and attaching to the heart. Learn more about what you can do and how you can work with a veterinarian to keep your dog safe.

What Are They?

Heartworms are long, stringy, transparent foot-long worms that live in the blood vessels of the heart and lungs. It is a severe and potentially fatal condition that damages the organs they nestle in and can lead to heart or lung failure, cancer, and other health issues. They are also found in other animal species, but dogs are their natural host.

How Do They Affect Dogs?

Dogs can only become infected with heartworms if an infected mosquito bites them. Once inside the dog’s body, the larvae create multiple offspring. It takes approximately seven months for the larvae to mature into an adult and reproduce. Dogs can have as many as 250 worms in their system for as long as 5-7 years.

Signs of Heartworms

Initially, there are no symptoms—which is why heartworm prevention is the best way to eliminate the potential health risks associated with an infection.

Eventually, dogs will develop a cough, get winded more easily, and have a swollen belly from excess fluids in the abdomen. Severe heartworm disease is noticeable through abnormal lung sounds, dehydration, and frequent sleeping. If the condition continues, it can be fatal.

Preventive Tips

Heartworm prevention is cost-effective and comes in a variety of options. For example, a monthly topical treatment or oral pill is purchasable at the vet, or the veterinarian can apply them for you. A six-month injectable product is also available. Regardless, annual testing is necessary to catch heartworms early, even if your dog is on a preventative medication. It’s crucial never to miss a dose, or your dog may be unprotected and vulnerable to infection.

For heartworm prevention, medication, and treatment of heartworm related symptoms, contact the friendly and knowledgeable staff at West Pine Animal Hospital and Pet Resort in West End, NC. At this animal hospital, your pets will be treated with respect and kindness and receive customized care. They also provide other high-quality veterinary services, as well as pet boarding and grooming. To schedule an appointment, call (910) 673-3103 today or visit their website for more information on preventative care.