At our veterinary hospital, we’re proud to participate in Heartworm Awareness Month. This April, we’re helping to spread the word about heartworm disease–a preventable, but potentially deadly condition. By promoting the circulation of accurate, helpful information, we strive to help our clients keep their pets healthy and happy.
Heartworm Explained
Heartworm is a parasitic infection caused by the Dirofilaria immitis parasite. These worms are spread by mosquitoes, so pets living in warm, humid climates have an especially high risk of infection. The parasites travel through the bloodstream and eventually settle in the chambers of the heart and lungs, where they can cause inflammation and blockages that result in serious damage.
Signs and Symptoms of Heartworm
Pets with heartworm disease may experience coughing, listlessness, weight loss, difficulty breathing, and even sudden collapse. Left untreated, the infection can be fatal. It’s important to note that some pets with heartworm disease don’t show any symptoms at all. That’s why it is so important to have a preventative plan in place and visit your veterinarian for annual heartworm testing.
How to Prevent Heartworm
The best way to protect your pet from heartworm is to administer a monthly preventative medication. This helps keep the parasite from entering your pet’s body and causing an infection. This medication is only available by prescription, so you’ll need to visit your veterinarian in order to obtain it. It’s also important to bring your pet in for regular checkups, so your veterinarian can ensure they are healthy and free of parasites.
Contact Your Veterinarian Today
The first step to creating a heartworm prevention plan is to consult your veterinarian. They can provide you with the information and resources you need to keep your pet healthy, including preventative medications. Your veterinarian can also help you set up a regular checkup schedule to ensure that your pet remains free of parasites.