Heartworm disease is devastating and is caused by a single infected mosquito bite. Because heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes, every dog is at risk. All 50 states have reported cases, the number of which has been on the rise for years. This disease causes heartworms (foot-long worms) to live in the heart, lungs and blood vessels of affected pets. If left untreated these worms cause severe damage to the lungs, heart and other organs in the body. Year-round preventatives are the best way to protect your pet. At Healthy Paws we have a different options that you can discuss with your veterinary team.
Signs of Heartworm:
*please call us if you notice any of the following symptoms in your pet*
Persistent cough
Fatigue after moderate activity
Reluctance to exercise
Decreased appetite
Weight loss
Treatment:
Treatment can cost more than 15 times that of a year's worth of heartworm preventative. Dogs are typically hospitalized to receive drugs to kill the worms as safely as possible. Unfortunately there is no safe, effective treatment for heartworm in cats.
Prevention:
Heartworm is 100% preventible. Giving your pet year-round preventatives are key to protecting them from an infected mosquito bite. Yearly testing at your pet's annual vet visit is critical in catching heartworm early. Your veterinarian would be happy to discuss preventative options and answer all the questions you may have.
Healthy Paws Preventatives:
- Proheart6 (injection - 6 month protection)
- Tri-Heart Plus (chewable - 1 month protection)
- Sentinel (chewable - 1 month protection)
For more information visit: https://www.heartwormsociety.org
Blog: Meghan Lauro