Health Tips -- Worm Control

Heartworms

Heartworms are internal parasites that live in the blood vessels of dogs and are transmitted by mosquitoes. They can prove to be extremely deadly by blocking blood flow to the heart, which can lead to heart failure. These worms are found throughout the country, especially during hot months when there are more mosquitoes present.

Dogs should be tested regularly for heartworms (this can be done by a simple blood test) because there are often no outward signs of infection. If there are symptoms, they could include: cough, weight loss, lethargy and difficulty breathing. The treatment for infection involves killing the worms and the offspring in your dog's body. This is a risky treatment for your dog because the drugs used are toxic to the dog as well as the worms. The medicine is usually administered in a hospital.

Because heartworm infection can be so deadly and the treatment is risky, it is very important to prevent infection from ever occurring. There are a couple types of preventative drugs available, and they are usually taken either daily or monthly. It is important to start the drug before mosquito season starts and keep administering it until the season is over. Some dog owners give the pills all year, although this is not necessary in most of the country.

|| Quick Tips || Home ||