Dogs of all breeds and sizes are susceptible to heartworm disease. The harmful parasites tend to attach to our furry companions, posing a serious threat to their lives. Treating heartworm infection in dogs can be expensive and may involve complex procedures. Therefore, as dog parents, we must take proactive steps to prevent heartworm infections in our canine companions. If you’re new to dog parenthood and don’t know how to protect your pal from dangerous heartworms, don’t worry, as we’re here to help! In this blog, we’re happy to shed light on the early signs and ways to prevent heartworm disease in dogs.
Read on to find out more!
Heartworm Disease in Dogs
Heartworm Disease is a potentially fatal disease in dogs caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilariaimmitis and transmitted by mosquito bites. A fully grown heartworm can grow up to a foot long or even more in length and live in the heart, blood vessels or lungs of dogs, causing heart failure, lung disease and severe damage to other organs.
What Causes Heartworms in Dogs
Heartworm Heartworms in dogs are primarily transmitted by mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites a healthy dog, it transmits the heartworm larvae (while transmission, heartworm is at L3 stage and that is not Microfilaria) to the dog. The heartworm larva eventually grows and develops into the adult stage and reproduces. These worms enter the bloodstream and move to the pulmonary arteries, interrupting pulmonary and cardiac functions.
Signs of Heartworm Disease
Dogs may not show noticeable symptoms of heartworm disease in the early stages of the infection. The symptoms often appear when the infection persists for a considerable period of time.
Signs of heartworm disease in dogs generally include:
- Lethargy
- Cough
- Collapse
- Intolerance to exercise
- Difficulty in breathing
- Weight loss
- Excessive panting
How to Prevent Heartworm Disease in Dogs?
Treating heartworm disease in dogs can be complicated, expensive, painful, and time-consuming. Therefore, as pet parents, it is important to use effective heartworm preventives to keep these deadly parasites at bay. The products are pocket-friendly, completely safe for dogs and very easy to administer.
While some products only work at preventing heartworm infestation, there are others that also offer protection against fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms.
Some of the most effective heartworm preventives for dogs include Heartgard Plus, NexGard Spectra, Simparica Trio, Interceptor Plus, and Advantage Multi. Seek your veterinarian’s advice to determine a suitable product for your furry baby.
Other Tips to Prevent Heartworm Infection
Besides using heartworm preventives, you may also implement the following practices to reduce the risk of heartworm infection in dogs:
- Minimise mosquito exposure
- Clean any standing water around your home to prevent mosquito breeding
- Avoid taking your dog outdoors during dusk and dawn
- Use pet-safe mosquito repellents where appropriate
- Groom your dog regularly
Parting Words
As a responsible dog parent, you must remain informed about the risks of heartworm disease in dogs, their symptoms and prevention. Though the disease can be deadly, you can always ensure your dog’s wellbeing and heartworm-free life with the help of year-round preventives and annual veterinary check-ups.
