How Do You Treat Heartworms in Dogs?

When your dog is diagnosed with heartworms, it’s essential to follow a structured treatment plan. You’ll start with medications like ivermectin to target larvae and prevent the infection from worsening. Following this, drugs such as melarsomine dihydrochloride are administered to eliminate adult worms. Throughout the process, managing your dog’s activity levels and closely monitoring for any side effects is necessary. But how do you guarantee the complete elimination of heartworms and a smooth recovery for your furry friend? Let’s explore the steps and precautions you need to take.

What are the treatment options for heartworm in dogs?

When treating heartworms in dogs, you’ll primarily rely on medications designed to kill both the larvae and adult worms. Below is an introduction about 2 kinds of medication that can kill both heartworm larvae and heartworm aldult.

Medication to kill heartworm larvae

Macrocyclic lactones (MLs) are the primary class of drugs used to prevent heartworm disease by targeting and eliminating heartworm larvae (microfilariae) in dogs. The most commonly used MLs include:

• Ivermectin: Found in products like Heartgard, it’s 100% effective in preventing L3 and L4 larval development when given within 30 days of infection at a dose of 6 μg/kg.
• Selamectin: Available in products like Revolution, it shows 100% efficacy against L3 and L4 larvae when administered as a single topical dose of 6 mg/kg.
• Moxidectin: An ingredient in Advantage Multi, it has demonstrated ≥98.8% efficacy against resistant heartworm strains at 24 μg/kg monthly for three doses.
• Milbemycin oxime: Found in products like Interceptor, it provides 100% efficacy in preventing heartworm development at 0.5 mg/kg monthly when started within 30 days of infection.

The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round administration of FDA-approved heartworm preventives. These medications are available only by prescription from veterinarians and are crucial for preventing heartworm disease, which can cause permanent heart and lung damage if left untreated.

Medication to kill adult heartworm

Melarsomine dihydrochloride is a key component in the treatment protocol for heartworm disease. is the only FDA-approved adulticide treatment for canine heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis. Studies have demonstrated its high efficacy in eliminating adult heartworms when administered according to recommended protocols.

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The standard two-dose protocol, involving two intramuscular injections of 2.5 mg/kg given 24 hours apart, has shown 90.7% efficacy against transplanted adult heartworms and 90.8% efficacy against induced infections of 4-month-old (L5) immature heartworms.

However, the three-dose protocol recommended by the American Heartworm Society has demonstrated even greater efficacy. This protocol involves an initial injection of 2.5 mg/kg, followed by two additional injections of the same dose given 24 hours apart, one month after the first injection, to combat heartworm disease in dogs. This regimen has been shown to be 98% effective in eliminating adult heartworms and preventing heart failure.

The high efficacy of melarsomine, particularly with the three-dose protocol, makes it the current gold standard for adulticide treatment of canine heartworm disease when administered in conjunction with appropriate supportive care and exercise restriction.

Heartworm Treatment Steps

Heartworm treatment in dogs is a complex process that requires careful management and close veterinary supervision. Here are the key steps involved in treating heartworm disease:

• Initial assessment and stabilization

Before beginning treatment, your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination of your dog, including blood tests and imaging studies to assess the severity of the infection and your dog’s overall health. In some cases, dogs may need to be stabilized before treatment can begin, especially if they are showing severe symptoms.

• Exercise restriction

One of the most critical aspects of heartworm treatment is strict exercise restriction. This is essential to reduce the risk of complications, such as pulmonary thromboembolism, which can occur when dead worms break apart and block blood vessels in the lungs.

• Pre-treatment medications

Before administering the main heartworm treatment, your veterinarian may prescribe:

• • Doxycycline: This antibiotic targets Wolbachia, a bacteria that lives symbiotically with heartworms. Eliminating these bacteria can help weaken the heartworms and prevent lung disease.
  • Prednisone: A corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation and minimize the risk of adverse reactions to dying heartworms.
• Heartworm preventative medication

Your dog will be started on a heartworm preventative medication to kill any newly acquired larvae and prevent further infection.

• Adulticide treatment

The main treatment for adult heartworms involves the administration of melarsomine dihydrochloride (Immiticide). The typical protocol includes:

• • Day 1: First injection of melarsomine
  • Day 30: Second injection of melarsomine
  • Day 31: Third injection of melarsomine

This staged approach helps to gradually kill the adult worms, reducing the risk of complications.

• Post-treatment care and monitoring

After the adulticide treatment:

• • Continue exercise restriction for 6-8 weeks
  • Monitor for side effects such as coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, or fever
  • Attend follow-up appointments for check-ups and tests
• Testing for treatment efficacy

Approximately 6 months after treatment, your veterinarian will perform an antigen test to confirm that all adult heartworms have been eliminated.

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• Ongoing prevention

Once your dog has been successfully treated, it’s crucial to maintain them on year-round heartworm prevention to avoid reinfection. But if you missed a dose, learn more about what to do next here.

Throughout this process, it’s essential to work closely with your veterinarian and follow their instructions carefully. Heartworm treatment can be challenging, but with proper care and management, most dogs can recover successfully.

How can You prevent Your dog from getting heartworms in the future ?

Keeping your dog safe from heartworms involves a combination of year-round preventive medication, regular veterinary check-ups, mosquito control measures, and initial testing before starting preventatives.

First, make sure your dog is on a reliable heartworm preventive medication year-round. These medications are vital because they kill the heartworm larvae before they can mature into adult worms that cause severe health issues.

Regular veterinary check-ups are also essential. Your vet will conduct blood tests to detect any heartworm presence early. Early detection makes treatment more manageable and less risky for your dog. During these visits, your vet can also update you on the best preventive measures.

Mosquito control plays a significant role since mosquitoes transmit heartworms. Reduce mosquito exposure by keeping your dog indoors during peak mosquito hours and using pet-safe insect repellents. Additionally, eliminate standing water around your home where mosquitoes breed.

Lastly, before starting any heartworm preventive, initial testing is necessary. This ensures your dog isn’t already infected, as giving preventatives to an infected dog can cause severe reactions.

Here’s a quick summary:

1. Year-round preventive medication
2. Regular veterinary check-ups
3. Mosquito control measures

To understand how to prevent heartworm in dogs, refer to our detailed prevention guide

FAQs

What complications can arise from heartworm treatment in dogs?

Treating heartworms in dogs can sometimes lead to complications like allergic reactions or respiratory distress. When the heartworms die, they may release substances that can cause your dog’s immune system to react. This reaction can lead to severe symptoms and requires immediate veterinary attention. Additionally, the death of the worms can block blood vessels, causing serious problems.

Here are three common complications you should watch out for?

1. Pulmonary Thromboembolism: As heartworms die, they can break apart and travel to the lungs, causing blockages in the blood vessels. This can lead to difficulty breathing, coughing, and even sudden death in severe cases.
2. Allergic Reactions: Some dogs may develop allergic reactions to the dying worms or the medication used in treatment. Symptoms can range from mild itching to severe anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening if not treated promptly.
3. Liver and Kidney Damage: The medications used to kill heartworms are potent and can sometimes affect the liver and kidneys. Monitoring your dog’s liver and kidney function during treatment is essential to catch any issues early.

Always consult your veterinarian for advice tailored to your dog’s specific condition and make sure you follow their recommendations closely to minimize risks.

How much does heartworm treatment for dogs typically cost?

Heartworm treatment for dogs typically costs between $600 and $6,000, depending on factors like the severity of the infection, the dog’s size, and the specific treatment plan. The process includes diagnostic tests, medications like doxycycline and steroids, and a series of melarsomine injections, which alone can range from $500 to $1,500. In severe cases, surgery might be required, costing The cost for treatment can range from $3,000 to $6,000, especially for cases of heart failure.. Preventative care, in contrast, is much more affordable, usually costing between $50 and $90 per month, highlighting the importance of prevention over treatment.

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How should I care for my dog during heartworm treatment?

Caring for a dog undergoing heartworm treatment requires diligent attention to their physical and emotional needs. It’s important to follow your vet’s guidelines closely to guarantee a smooth recovery process. Here are some key steps you should take:

1. Restrict Activity: Your dog needs to stay calm and avoid strenuous activities. This helps prevent complications such as a pulmonary embolism. Crate rest is often recommended to limit movement.
2. Follow Medication Guidelines: Administer all prescribed medications exactly as directed. This may include antibiotics, steroids, or heartworm preventatives. Missing doses or incorrect administration can impede the treatment’s effectiveness.
3. Monitor for Side Effects: Keep a close eye on your dog for any unusual signs or symptoms. Common side effects include lethargy, coughing, and loss of appetite. If you notice anything concerning, contact your vet immediately.

Additionally, provide a stress-free environment and offer plenty of love and reassurance. Your dog may feel anxious or uncomfortable during treatment, so your support is vital.

Conclusion

Treating heartworms in dogs requires a multi-step approach involving medications for larvae and adult worms, alongside activity restrictions and regular vet visits. By following this plan, you guarantee your dog’s complete recovery.

To prevent future heartworm infections, use preventive medications consistently and schedule regular check-ups. Taking these measures and joining Heartworm Awareness Month will help keep your furry friend healthy and heartworm-free.

Remember, proactive care is key to your dog’s long-term well-being.

References:

• Beugnet, F., McTiernan, B., Patz, J., Comer, K. M., & Fourie, J. (2017). Efficacy of fluralaner chewable tablets (Bravecto®) against induced infestations of Ixodes scapularis and Ixodes ricinus on dogs. Parasites & Vectors, 10(1), 259. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13071-017-2190-9

• Lobetti, R., Brianti, E., Furlanello, T., Genchi, C., Cassini, R., Maggi, R. G., … Antognoni, L. (2021). Prevention of canine vector-borne diseases: A One Health perspective. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 8, 702018. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2021.702018

• American Heartworm Society. (2018). 2018 American Heartworm Society guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of heartworm disease in dogs and cats. https://www.heartwormsociety.org/images/pdf/2018-AHS-Canine-Guidelines.pdf