Protect your pooch from Dog Heartworm – A deadly disease
As dog owners, we always want our furry friends to be healthy, happy, and free from any kind of disease or infections. However, there are many diseases that can affect our dogs, and one of the most dangerous and deadly among them is dog heartworm.
Dog heartworm is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by a parasitic worm, called Dirofilaria immitis, which lives in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of dogs.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about dog heartworm, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, and most importantly, how to prevent it from affecting your beloved pet.
What causes dog heartworm?
Dog heartworm is caused by a parasitic worm, called Dirofilaria immitis, which is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites a dog, it injects the heartworm larvae into the dog’s bloodstream. These larvae then travel to the heart and lungs of the dog, where they mature and reproduce, causing damage to these vital organs.
Once the larvae mature into adult heartworms, they can reach up to 12 inches in length and live inside the dog’s heart for many years, causing severe damage to the heart and lungs and ultimately leading to heart failure and death.
What are the symptoms of dog heartworm?
In the early stages, dog heartworm may not show any visible symptoms, and the only way to detect it is through a blood test. However, as the disease progresses, the symptoms may become more visible and severe. Some of the common symptoms of dog heartworm are:
– Coughing
– Shortness of breath
– Fatigue
– Loss of appetite
– Weight loss
– Swollen abdomen
– Difficulty breathing
– Pale gums
– Inactivity
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is essential to take them to the vet immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
How is dog heartworm diagnosed?
To diagnose dog heartworm, your vet will perform a blood test to check for the presence of heartworms in your dog’s bloodstream. If the test comes back positive, your vet may perform additional tests such as chest x-rays and heart ultrasounds to determine the severity of the disease and its impact on your dog’s heart and lungs.
It is important to note that early detection of dog heartworm is crucial for the success of the treatment, and delaying the diagnosis can lead to further complications and even death.
How is dog heartworm treated?
Treatment for dog heartworm depends on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, your vet may prescribe a course of medication to kill the heartworms and prevent further spread of the disease. However, in severe cases, your dog may require hospitalization and more aggressive treatment.
The treatment for dog heartworm can be quite expensive, ranging from $500 to $1000 depending on the severity of the disease and the size of your dog. It is why prevention is always better than cure.
How to prevent dog heartworm?
Preventing dog heartworm is a crucial step in keeping your dog healthy and safe from this deadly disease. Here are some of the ways you can prevent dog heartworm:
1. Use heartworm preventatives: Heartworm preventatives are easy to administer and can protect your dog from heartworms. These medications work by killing the larvae before they mature into adult heartworms. Talk to your vet about the best heartworm preventative for your dog.
2. Keep your dog away from mosquitoes: Since dog heartworm is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes, it is essential to keep your dog away from them as much as possible. You can do this by keeping your dog indoors during peak mosquito hours, using mosquito repellents and mosquito nets, and removing any standing water around your house.
3. Regular vet check-ups: Regular vet check-ups are essential to detect any signs of dog heartworm early on. Your vet may also recommend routine blood tests to check for heartworms.
4. Maintain good hygiene: Keeping your dog clean and well-groomed can help prevent dog heartworm. Mosquitoes are attracted to the smell of sweat, so keeping your dog clean and fresh can help repel mosquitoes.
5. Keep your environment clean: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so make sure to remove any stagnant water sources around your house. This includes emptying any bowls, buckets, or old tires that may collect rainwater.
FAQs
Q: Can dog heartworm be transmitted to humans?
A: No, dog heartworm is not contagious to humans. It can only be spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
Q: Can heartworm preventatives cause any side effects?
A: Although heartworm preventatives are generally safe, they can cause some side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Talk to your vet if you notice any unusual symptoms in your dog.
Q: Can my dog get heartworm even if they are on preventative medication?
A: Although heartworm preventatives can significantly reduce the risk of your dog getting heartworms, there is no guarantee that your dog will not get infected. That’s why it is crucial to keep up with regular vet check-ups and blood tests to ensure your dog’s good health.
Conclusion
Dog heartworm is a deadly disease that can cause severe damage to your dog’s heart and lungs. However, by taking the necessary precautions and preventative measures, you can protect your furry friend from this life-threatening disease.
Make sure to keep your dog on heartworm preventatives, maintain good hygiene, keep your environment clean, and regularly visit your vet to ensure your dog’s good health. With proper care and attention, you can keep your dog healthy and free from the dangers of dog heartworm.
