– By Dr. Patrick Martin –
Heartworm in Pets
A lot of people have heard of heartworm disease, but don’t know why it is so important. Heartworms are one of the most common preventable diseases that we see in veterinary medicine. While it has gotten better with the more informed people become, we still deal with it more than we would like.
How is Heartworm Transmitted?
Heartworms are a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes. Any mosquito can carry the larvae that can be transmitted with a single bite. The larvae migrate into the bloodstream, and 6-7 months later, your dog can test positive for this disease. If left untreated, it can become fatal and wreak havoc on the cardiovascular system by taking up residency in your dog’s heart and major vessels. This is why we test yearly and recommend staying on prevention year-round, at least in Texas.
Why Heartworm Prevention for Pets Is Critical
Many people doubt the severity of this illness because they are uninformed about the physical and financial toll treatment can put on owners and animals alike. Treatment is not as simple as taking a pill or a course of medications to clear the infection. Treatment typically involves a series of 2-3 injections into the deep epaxial muscles (muscles that surround the spine) of a medication that is essentially an arsenic-based dewormer.
Understanding Heartworm Treatment for Pets
During heartworm treatment, animals need to be on strict exercise restriction for 6-8 weeks, or they run the risk of having an allergic reaction when the worms break down, which can be fatal. So, when it comes to heartworm prevention and testing, it is imperative to be tested yearly and take heartworm preventative medicine regularly.
When to Test Your Pet for Heartworm Disease
If you are unsure about your pet’s history, whether you forgot to give the monthly medicine, or if you have an animal with an unknown history, it is best to perform a heartworm test, and then repeat testing 7 months later.
Schedule a test with us today and ensure your pet stays healthy year-round!