Heartworm is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by parasitic worms living in the heart and blood vessels of an infected animal.
It is most commonly found in dogs, but can also affect cats, ferrets, and other species. The disease is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, and is most common in areas of the world with warm climates.
Heartworm disease can have a severe impact on a dog’s health, often leading to organ failure and death if left untreated.
Symptoms of heartworm infection in dogs can vary from mild to severe, and can include coughing, weight loss, exercise intolerance, lethargy, and labored breathing. In some cases, dogs may also show signs of anemia and jaundice.
Coughing: Dogs infected with heartworm may develop a persistent cough, which can be dry or productive. The cough may become worse with exercise or when the dog lies down.
Weight Loss: Dogs with heartworm may experience a sudden or gradual weight loss, due to a decrease in appetite or an inability to absorb nutrients properly.
Exercise Intolerance: Dogs infected with heartworm may tire easily and have difficulty completing even short periods of exercise. They may also seem weak and lethargic.
Lethargy: Dogs with heartworm may appear listless and uninterested in activities they normally enjoy, such as playing or going for walks.
Labored Breathing: Dogs with heartworm may develop labored breathing, which may be accompanied by a bluish tint to the gums or tongue.
Anemia and Jaundice: In severe cases of heartworm, dogs may develop anemia or jaundice, which can be identified by pale gums and a yellowish tint to the skin, respectively.
Fortunately, heartworm infection is preventable.
The most effective way to protect your dog from heartworm is to use a monthly prescription heartworm preventative. These medications are available in both oral and topical forms, and are highly effective at preventing heartworm infection.
In addition to using heartworm preventatives, it is important to reduce your dog’s exposure to mosquitoes.
This can be done by keeping your dog inside when mosquitoes are most active, using mosquito repellent, and keeping your yard free of standing water, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
If your dog does become infected with heartworm
It is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, including an anti-parasitic medication to kill the worms, and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. The treatment can take several weeks or months to complete, and may require hospitalization in some cases.
In addition to medication, your veterinarian may also recommend lifestyle changes for your dog. This may include limiting your dog’s exercise to reduce the stress on the heart, and providing a low-salt diet to reduce fluid buildup in the lungs.
