Ive heard the term HEARTWORMS, but what are they? Heartworms are potentially lethal parasites called Dirofilaria immitis. They are transmitted to your pet (yes, both dogs AND cats can be infected) through the bite of a mosquito that is carrying microscopic heartworm larvae (baby heartworms). As the mosquito feeds on your pet, the baby heartworms are deposited into the blood stream where they travel to the heart and large blood vessels of the lungs. As these worms continue to mature and begin multiplying, the heart enlarges often causing lung disease and eventually heart failure. * some signs to look out for -- coughing, labored breathing, lethargy, shortness of breath or exercise intolerance, weight loss, distended abdomen (swollen belly), vomiting. If your dog has aquired this infection, they can be treated. However, there is no approved treatment for our feline friends. Thus, prevention is the best protection. Prevention involves the use of monthy tablets or a topical solution that is placed in between the shoulder blades. Dogs do require a annual test to determine status (even if they are currently on the preventative). If you are concerned in any way that your pet may have heartworms or to get them on prevention, contact us today to get set up with an appointment time.
Posted on: Thu, 16 Jan 2014 23:46:28 +0000