Heartworm Prevention Recommendations
What is Heartworm disease?
Heartworm is a parasite of the canine cardiovascular system. The heartworm larvae are spread to dogs by mosquitoes. In unprotected dogs the larvae will mature within the blood stream to adulthood. They locate themselves within the heart and major blood vessels of the lungs.
When should I test my pet?
In accordance with the American Heartworm Society recommendations, the Gentle Doctor Animal Hospitals recommend annual testing for all of our canine patients. Due to the low worm burdens of most cats, we do not routinely recommend testing in our feline patients.
How do I protect my pet?
There are several medications that can be given on a monthly basis that are very effective in preventing heartworm infestation. Please ask our professional staff for the product that is best suited for your pet.The monthly preventative can be given year-round and provides excellent protection especially if the winter is mild. Because the parasite is spread by mosquitoes, in the Midwest it is considered safe to give the preventative nine months out of the year – skipping the winter months December, January and February.
If my pet is on preventative year-round, do I still need to test?
It is still a very good idea. It is possible that there could be a break in protection, and even dogs taking the medicine every month of the year could contract the disease. Success and safety of treatment is greatly improved by early detection. The annual testing recommendation by the American Heartworm Society is based on this premise.Most of the heartworm prevention products are guaranteed if you are using them nine to 12 months out of the year. If there is a break in protection and your dog gets the disease, the company will pay for the treatment. The guarantee, however, is only good if you do a heartworm test at least every 24 months.
