Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially deadly condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. Fortunately, it can be prevented with the use of preventative medication.
What is heartworm disease?
Heartworm disease is a parasitic infection that affects dogs and is caused by the roundworm Dirofilaria immitis. The infection is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito and can cause severe damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels in affected dogs. Symptoms can include coughing, lethargy, weight loss, and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, heartworm disease can lead to heart failure and death.
Preventative medication
Fortunately, heartworm disease can be prevented with the use of preventative medication. These medications work by killing the immature heartworms that are transmitted to your dog through mosquito bites. There are several different types of heartworm preventative medications available, including:
- Monthly oral medication: These medications are administered orally once a month and come in a variety of flavours that dogs love.
- Topical medication: These medications are applied topically to your dog’s skin once a month and come in a liquid form.
- Injectable medication: These medications are administered by your veterinarian once every 12 months and provide long-lasting protection against heartworms.
It is important to note that heartworm preventative medication should be given year-round, even in areas with colder climates where mosquitoes may be less prevalent. This is because heartworms have a long-life cycle and can survive in a dormant state for months before becoming active again.
