Heartworms, Easier to Prevent than to Treat

By Lori Suddith

    Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite that is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. 

    We have all heard, “My dog only goes out to potty, then comes right back inside.”  All it takes is a bite from one infected mosquito to give your dog heartworms.  Mosquitoes do come inside so any dog or cat that is not on heartworm preventative is at risk.  Your dog may not show any indication of heartworm infection in the early stages of the disease. That is why an annual blood test is so important. 

    Regular testing allows for diagnosis and treatment prior to the onset of symptoms and permanent changes in the heart and lungs.  Early on, treatment can return a dog to “normal” status.  With advanced heartworm disease, we may be able to get rid of the parasite but changes to the heart and lungs may remain for the remainder of his or her life.  Heartworm preventative is inexpensive compared to the cost of treating a dog with heartworms.  Why put your dog at risk for contracting a disease that is so easily preventable?   Heartworm prevention is a prescription that you get through your veterinarian after a negative blood parasite test is done. In Texas, it is recommended dogs be on heartworm preventative year-round due to the ongoing exposure to mosquitoes.  A little pill or a beef-flavored treat once a month can mean the difference in a happy, healthy dog and a dog at risk for contracting something deadly.  Remember our feline friends are also at risk and we will address them in a future article.  Let Murphy Road Animal Hospital answer any questions you might have regarding Heartworm disease.