Heartworm Disease in Dogs: A Serious Threat You Can Prevent

Heartworm is a serious disease for dogs. Worms live inside their hearts, lungs and blood vessels and can make them very ill. While heartworms sound scary, preventing them is simple. There are safe and effective medicines that you can give your pet. Maintaining the health and happiness of your dog depends on your awareness of the hazards and your proactive actions, thus understanding the threat of heartworm disease in dogs help you prevent and protect your dogs.

What is Heartworm Disease? How Does it Spread?

Dirofilaria immitis is the parasitic worm that causes heartworm illness. Heartworm larvae enter a dog’s body by the bite of an infected mosquito, which is how these worms are spread. These larvae develop over several months into adult worms that reside in the heart, lungs, and nearby blood vessels for five to seven years. The adult worms can reach a length of 12 inches.

6 Common Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Dogs

6 most common signs of heartworm disease in dogs include:

• Persistent cough;
• Reluctance to exercise, fatigue;
• Weight loss;
• Distended abdomen (fluid buildup);
• Difficulty breathing;
• Collapse (in severe cases).

It’s key to remember that early-stage heartworm infections could not exhibit any signs at all, which is why routine veterinary exams and preventive measures are essential.

Diagnosing Heartworm Disease

An easy blood test at your veterinarian’s clinic is the main way to diagnose heartworm illness. Heartworm antigens are a sign of a current infection that can be found with this test. To determine the extent of the infection, further testing, like x-rays or ultrasounds, could be suggested in some circumstances.

Treatment of Heartworm Disease

Particularly in more severe cases, treating heartworm illness can be a difficult and dangerous procedure. 

In order to eradicate the adult worms, the therapy usually consists of several injections. Medication is then used to control the symptoms and any potential problems. 

It is usually preferable to avoid heartworm disease by using safe and efficient preventative procedures because of the risks involved.

Preventing Heartworm Disease: The Best Protection

Preventive medicine is the best approach to shield your dog from heartworm illness. 

They are available in several forms, including as injectable formulations, oral pills, and topical solutions. 

Since mosquitoes can remain active all year round in many areas, it is imperative to maintain year-round protection.

What Happens if Your Dog Tests Positive for Heartworm

It is imperative to collaborate closely with your veterinarian to create a customized treatment plan if your dog’s heartworm test results are positive. 

To safely eradicate the worms, this may entail more testing, exercise limitation, and a customized treatment plan. Your dog can be effectively treated and returned to good health even though it can be a difficult procedure with the help of your veterinarian.

Dogs who have heartworm disease face a major risk to their health and wellbeing, but the illness is also preventable. You can make sure your dog lives a long, healthy life by being aware of the hazards, identifying the symptoms and indicators, and taking preventative measures to safeguard your furry friend. To get dependable and efficient heartworm prevention products to keep your pet healthy, visit Anipet.

FAQs

What are the first signs of heartworms in dogs?

Dogs’ initial heartworm symptoms are frequently minor and include coughing, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Breathing problems are among the most serious symptoms that may arise as the illness worsens.

Can heartworm in dogs be cured?

Heartworm in dogs can sometimes be treated, but the treatment process is complex and risky. Early detection and preventative medication are crucial to avoid the need for treatment.

Can dogs get heartworms in the UK?

Yes, dogs in the UK can contract heartworms, though it is less common than in some other parts of the world. The disease is spreading as the climate becomes more suitable for the mosquitoes that transmit it.

How does a dog get heartworms?

Dogs primarily get heartworms from infected mosquito bites. The mosquitoes pick up microscopic heartworm larvae from infected dogs and then transmit them when they bite another dog.