HOW DO I KNOW IF MY PET HAS HEARTWORMS? WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Typical symptoms include coughing, labored breathing, weakness, and weight loss. Unfortunately, the symptoms are subtle and the disease may be well advanced before any signs are noted. The only accurate way to diagnose the problem is with a blood test. Cats can be difficult to diagnose, even with blood tests.

IS THERE ANY WAY TO AVOID HEARTWORM DISEASE?
Even though heartworms are a life-threatening problem, they can be easily prevented. First, a small blood sample is tested for heartworm antigen. (Testing is not necessary in young puppies.) If the test is negative, heartworm preventive medication is begun. It’s as simple as giving a treat flavored tablet once a month. The blood test is repeated yearly. We will send you a reminder.

MY PET STAYS INDOORS. ISN’T THAT PROTECTION ENOUGH?
Even “indoor” dogs spend some time out doors. Infection only requires one mosquito bite if that mosquito is carrying infective larvae. Cats that stay indoors exclusively don’t need to take preventive medication.

DO I HAVE TO GIVE HEARTWORM PREVENTIVE MEDICATION IN THE WINTER?
In this area, mosquitoes are not out year-round but they can hatch out quickly during unseasonably warm periods. This means that even though there is a safe period during the winter, it is brief and very unpredictable. Don’t take chances—treat year round.

HOW IS HEARTWORM DISEASE TREATED?
Dogs— Treatment can sometimes have serious complications but everything possible is done to avoid problems. First, a complete physical examination, chest X-rays, ECG screening and a comprehensive laboratory work-up are done. Your dog is then hospitalized for a series of treatments to kill the adult worms. This is followed by several weeks of strict confinement while the body breaks down and eliminates the dead worms. If your dog becomes too active during this time it can trigger severe, potentially fatal reactions. The final step is treatment of the mircrofilaria. Follow up blood tests are then done to make sure the heartworms are gone.

Cats— Cats are usually not treated because the risk of serious complications from treatment itself is high.

For more on Heartworm Disease treatment, visit here.

WHY NOT JUST DO NOTHING AND TREAT MY PET IF IT GETS HEARTWORMS?
Heartworms in dogs can generally be treated successfully, but the treatment is not to be taken lightly. Treatment is time consuming and expensive. Serious reactions can occur and permanent heart or lung damage can persist even after treatment. Cats are usually not treated because of the number of serious complications.

SUMMARY
1. Have a heartworm test done on your dog yearly.
2. Give preventive medication year round to all dogs and cats that spend any time outdoors.