Dogs and Heartworms
If your dog has heartworms then he more than likely received it from a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes in most any part of the country carry these heartworms, particularly on the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. If your dog is not protected by preventative medication, then the chances are likely that even a single mosquito bite will give your dog heartworm.
As the name says it, these little worms literally live in the heart of its host. Shortness of breath is typically the first sign of the dog having heartworms. You will also notice coughing, rapid breathing, and weight loss. Although rare, death can also be the end result of a heartworm infestation. Although other animals can also contract heartworms, they are more prevalent with dogs.
Unfortunately there is no possible way to keep your dog from being bitten by a mosquito, the only thing that you can do is take preventative measures. The best thing to do is contact your vet and ask what medication to buy for your dog. In the meantime, we have some useful tidbits of information below:
1. Don’t wait; contact your veterinarian for advice before your dog has a problem. Medication against heartworms is available in daily doses or monthly doses
Those that live in colder areas may only have to give the pill to their dogs during mosquito season, but many vets like to play it safe and prescribe the pills all year round, says Paul Schmitz, D.V.M., a veterinarian whom owns a private practice in Joliet, Illinois.
2. Do not avoid having your dog medicated just because you are confident that he does not go outside much and will not be infected with heartworms, or so you believe. Remember, all it takes is one mosquito to get in and pass along this worm.
3. Make sure your dog gets a blood test before giving him heartworm medication. The blood test will show if your dog is infected or not. It would be dangerous to give your dog anti-heartworm medication if he is already infected. For any further questions on this matter, please consult your local veterinarian.
dog heartworms, dog medication, dog parasites, dogs, veterinarian
