Although Heartworm season isn’t until June 1st-November 1st, April has been designated as Heartworm Prevention Month to give out details to help protect your dogs from this nasty worm.
What is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease (Dirofilaria immitis, the larvae of heartworm), is considered a very serious, and if not treated, fatal disease. They are long (some up to one-foot long), worms that infect the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels of the dog.
These worms can cause heart failure, as well as serious lung disease and in worst cases, multi-function organ disease/failure.
Who Can Get Heartworm Disease?
Dogs are considered the primary host of Heartworm. It wasn’t until 1992, that scientists discovered it in cats as well. Cases in ferrets have also increased over the last few years. Heartworm has been discovered in wild animals as well, such as foxes, coyotes, and wolves. In rare occurrences, Heartworm has been diagnosed in humans.
How Does Your Dog Get Infected?
Heartworm disease is transmitted to dogs through mosquitos. Larvae are sent into the bloodstream through the mosquito bite. It takes about seven months for the juveniles to mature into adult heartworms.
Symptoms Include:
- Persistent Cough.
- Fatigue.
- Decreased Appetite.
- Weight Loss.
Prevention for Heartworm Disease
To keep your dog as safe as possible, make sure you are getting regular testing, utilize veterinary prescribed medications, minimize mosquito exposure, etc.
For further information on prevention, your veterinarian is the best person to ask.
https://www.mcleanvet.com/blog/may-2024/what-you-need-to-know-about-heartworm
https://www.dogster.com/dog-health-care/national-heartworm-awareness-month
https://www.torontohumanesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Heartworm-Testing-and-Prevention-Information.pdf