Heartworm Disease and Prevention

A mosquito borne parasite called Dirofilaria immitis causes canine heartworm disease. When an infected mosquito bites a Pet, microscopic heartworm larvae can enter the skin and tissues. The larvae migrate in multiple body tissues until they reach the large vessels of the heart and lungs. These parasites then grow up to 12 inches long in the heart and surrounding blood vessels.

Heartworm disease can cause damage to the following:

• heart
• lung
• kidney
• liver

Luckily, this is a preventable disease. Dogs are at most risk for heartworm infection. However, cats, ferrets, wild canines (foxes, etc.), humans, and several other mammals can be infected.

Often, infected Pets may show no symptoms until severe tissue damage has already occurred. These signs/symptoms include:

• coughing
• respiratory problem
• lack of energy
• exercise intolerance
• weight loss
• fainting
• coughing up blood
• or sudden respiratory distress
• and death

Diagnosis is based on signs, history, blood and other laboratory tests, and sometimes x-rays.

Treatment usually consists of hospitalizing your pet and medications to kill the adult parasites first and later the larval stages. In some cases, Pets may have serious or potentially fatal reactions to treatment medications. Also, the dead or dying adult worms may flow into the lungs, causing life threatening blood vessel blockages.

Prevention is the best, easiest, safest, and least expensive medicine.

1. After testing to rule out a pre-existing infection
2. A monthly dose of oral heartworm preventative will keep Pets parasite free

Heartworm medication, given consistently, helps your pet avoid getting infected with heartworms. Many heartworm preventives also kill some

intestinal worms that can cause serious disease.

*** IMPORTANT POINTS

• Have your Pet checked for heartworm disease yearly.
• Use heartworm preventive medication consistently and all medications as directed by your veterinarian.
• If your Pet shows signs of heartworm disease seek medical treatment from your veterinarian immediately!

If you have questions about this or any medical topic, please contact your Banfield hospital today.