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Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition in dogs caused by parasitic worms living in the heart and lungs.
We’ll explain what heartworms are, the symptoms of heartworm disease, how it's diagnosed, the available treatments, and preventive measures, all to help you protect your furry best friend.
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What are heartworms in dogs?
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Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) are parasitic worms that can infect dogs, causing severe health issues.
The life cycle of heartworms
Heartworms have a complex life cycle involving mosquitoes as intermediate hosts.
When a mosquito bites an infected dog, it ingests microfilariae (baby heartworms). These microfilariae develop into larvae within the mosquito.
When the mosquito bites another dog, it passes on the larvae, which then mature over several months into adult heartworms in the dog's heart and lungs.
These adult worms mate, producing microfilariae that enter the bloodstream, completing the heartworm life cycle.
How heartworms are transmitted
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Heartworms are primarily transmitted when an infected mosquito bites a dog and deposits heartworm larvae into the dog's bloodstream.
Places where transmission is likely
Heartworm transmission is most common in warm, humid environments where mosquitoes thrive. Regions with standing water, such as ponds and swamps, are particularly high-risk areas.
Symptoms of heartworm disease in dogs
Heartworm disease can manifest in various ways, depending on the stage of infection. It can take several years before symptoms are seen, by which time the condition is usually well advanced.
Here are the symptoms to watch for at different stages of the disease:
| Stage | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Initial signs | First signs could be a mild cough and fatigue after moderate activity. Note that dogs can be asymptomatic for years |
| More advanced heartworm symptoms | Persistent cough, difficulty breathing, unexplained weight loss, swollen belly due to fluid accumulation |
| Severe heartworm cases | Heart failure, blockage of blood flow within the heart, sudden death |
Remember, the sooner you recognise these symptoms, the sooner your vet can intervene, which can significantly improve your dog’s prognosis.
Consult your vet ASAP if you notice any of these signs!
Diagnosis of heartworm disease in dogs
Heartworm disease is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of heartworm proteins. Your veterinarian may also use X-rays, ultrasounds, and other tests to assess the severity of the infection.
Treatment options for heartworm disease
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Treating heartworm disease can be a complex process, and it all depends on the severity of the infection. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial for a successful outcome.
Unfortunately, by the time most dogs show symptoms of heartworm disease, significant damage will have already occurred.
This includes scarring of the heart and lungs and narrowing of the blood vessels. That's why it's so important to make sure to prevent heartworm from occurring (more on that later) in the first place.
Here are some of the basic steps your vet may take to treat heartworm disease:
Pre-treatment evaluation
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Before starting treatment, your vet will examine your dog's overall health and the severity of the infection.
Medications
Treatment usually involves a series of injections to kill the adult heartworms, along with medications to eliminate microfilariae and reduce inflammation.
Post-treatment care
After treatment, dogs need rest and limited activity to prevent complications. Follow your vet's instructions for follow-up appointments!
How to prevent heartworm disease
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Preventing heartworm disease is far easier and more cost-effective than treating it.
Here are some key preventive strategies to follow if you live in an area where heartworm infection is prevalent (or if your pet is travelling to a country where they are common).
Keep up with regular veterinary check-ups
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Regular visits and preventative pet care give your vet the opportunity to monitor your pup for signs of parasites like heartworms. Even if your dog's on preventive medications, they'll still need to have a heartworm test annually.
Use preventive heartworm medications
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Don't underestimate the power of monthly heartworm preventives! These medications kill heartworm larvae before they mature into adults. Ask your vet what they recommend for your dog.
You'll need a prescription to order it, and typically vets will require that you bring your dog in for an exam so they can test them for heartworm first.
Environmental control
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Reduce your dog's exposure to mosquitoes by getting rid of standing water in your garden and using physical bug repellents, lights, and citronella candles outside.
Look into dog-safe bug repellent
There are plenty of dog-safe mosquito and bug repellents on the market. But before you buy and apply, ask your vet what they recommend for your dog. Even "natural" ingredients can irritate your dog's skin.
Myths and misconceptions about heartworms
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Don't fall prey to the myths and misconceptions about heartworm disease! When you know the facts, you won't underestimate the risk that teeny little mosquitoes can pose to your pup.
False: only outdoor dogs are at risk
Heartworm disease can affect both indoor and outdoor dogs, especially if you camp, hike, or live in a mosquito-prone area (or location with temperate weather that allows mosquitos to thrive much of the year). Mosquitoes can also easily find their way indoors, putting all dogs at risk.
False: heartworm disease isn't serious
Heartworm disease is severe and potentially fatal. Left untreated, it can cause lasting damage to the heart, lungs, and arteries.
False: heartworm prevention is too expensive
Preventive measures are cost-effective compared to the high cost and risk of treating an established heartworm infection.
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Conclusion
Heartworm disease is a serious threat to dogs, but with prevention, early detection, and appropriate treatment, it can be managed effectively.
Regular veterinary care and preventive measures are key to keeping your dog healthy and the risk of developing heartworm disease low.
Of course, dog insurance is designed to help reimburse you for unforeseen costs for vet treatments and emergencies.
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