At Acton Veterinary Group, we're committed to keeping your dog healthy and happy. One of the most serious threats to your dog’s health is heartworm disease, a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. Understanding how heartworm is transmitted, recognizing its symptoms, and knowing the importance of early prevention and treatment can make a crucial difference in your dog’s wellbeing. Here’s everything you need to know:
How Would My Dog Catch Heartworm?
Heartworm disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae bites your dog, it deposits the larvae into their bloodstream. Over time, these larvae mature into adult worms, which take up residence in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels, causing significant damage. This is why regular protection against mosquitoes is essential, even if your dog doesn’t spend a lot of time outdoors.
Can Dog Heartworm Be Prevented?
Yes, heartworm disease is completely preventable! There are several safe and effective heartworm preventatives available, including monthly oral medications, topical treatments, and long-lasting injections. Preventative measures should be taken year-round, as it only takes one mosquito bite to infect your dog. Speak with one of our veterinarians at Acton Veterinary Group to determine the best preventative option for your dog.
What Are the Early Signs That My Dog May Have Heartworm?
Early detection of heartworm disease is crucial, but symptoms often don’t appear until the disease has progressed. However, there are some subtle signs to watch out for, including:
Lethargy: If your dog seems more tired than usual and lacks energy for activities they once enjoyed, it could be a sign of heartworm disease.
Persistent Cough: Dogs with heartworm often develop a cough that won't go away, especially during exercise.
Weight Loss: A noticeable decline in appetite and subsequent weight loss can indicate the presence of heartworm.
What Are the Middle to Late-Stage Symptoms of Heartworm?
As the heartworm disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe. Dogs in the middle to late stages may experience:
Abnormal Sounds When Breathing: You may notice wheezing or labored breathing as the worms cause damage to the lungs and heart.
Bulging Ribs: As the disease progresses, your dog’s ribs may become more prominent due to weight loss and muscle atrophy.
Difficulty Breathing: In advanced stages, dogs may struggle to breathe as the worms obstruct blood flow in the lungs and heart.
Enlarged Liver and Heart Murmur:In severe cases, your veterinarian may detect an enlarged liver or heart murmur, indicating that the disease has progressed significantly.
What Can Be Done to Stabilize My Dog’s Heartworm Disease?
If your dog has been diagnosed with heartworm disease, the first step is stabilizing their condition. Your veterinarian will:
Confirm the Stage of Heartworm Disease: Diagnostic tests, including blood work and imaging, will help determine how advanced the disease is.
Restrict Exercise: To prevent further damage to the heart and lungs, your dog will need to rest and limit activity.
Stabilize Symptoms: Medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms like coughing and breathing difficulties.
Create a Treatment Plan: Your veterinarian will develop a customized treatment plan, which may include medications to kill heartworms and follow-up care to monitor recovery.
Testing and Prevention: Once your dog is heartworm-free, regular testing and ongoing preventative care are crucial to prevent future infections.
How Soon Should I Bring in My Dog for Heartworm Prevention?
Prevention should begin early—ideally when your dog is still a puppy. However, dogs of any age should be started on heartworm prevention as soon as possible. Year-round prevention is recommended, even in areas with a lower mosquito population. If your dog hasn’t been on preventative medication, or if it’s time for their annual heartworm test, schedule an appointment with Acton Veterinary Group today.
How Will a Veterinarian Diagnose Heartworm?
A heartworm test is a quick and simple process. Our veterinarians will perform a blood test to detect the presence of heartworm proteins. If your dog tests positive, additional tests like X-rays or ultrasounds may be needed to determine the extent of the infection and plan the best course of treatment.
Why Is Early Detection and Diagnosis of Heartworm So Important?
Early detection is vital because the longer heartworms go untreated, the more damage they can do to your dog’s heart, lungs, and other organs. In severe cases, heartworm disease can be fatal. By catching the disease early, we can start treatment before the damage becomes irreversible and significantly improve your dog’s chances of a full recovery.
Schedule Your Dog’s Heartworm Prevention Appointment Today!
Protect your dog from the serious risks of heartworm disease. Contact Acton Veterinary Group to schedule a heartworm prevention consultation or testing today! We’re here to help keep your furry friend safe and healthy for years to come.