Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by foot-long worms (heartworms) that reside in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of infected dogs. This leads to severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs in the body. In our region, heartworm is prevalent and poses a significant threat to canine health. Preventing heartworm disease is as crucial as vaccinations in maintaining your dog's well-being.
The Importance of Prevention
Preventing heartworm disease is far more manageable, safer, and cost-effective than treating an existing infection. Treatment involves complex protocols with potential risks and requires strict exercise restrictions for your dog. Moreover, heartworms can live up to seven years in a dog's body, causing progressive damage to the heart and lungs, which can lead to heart failure and other serious health issues.
Annual Testing and Comprehensive Screening
We recommend annual heartworm testing to ensure early detection and prompt intervention. At part of the diagnostics offered at our hospital, we utilize the IDEXX 4Dx Test, which not only screens for heartworm infection but also detects exposure to tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. This comprehensive approach allows us to monitor and protect your dog's health effectively.
Heartworm Preventatives Offered
To safeguard your dog against heartworm disease, we offer a variety of effective preventative options:
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Heartgard Plus: A monthly chewable tablet that prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls roundworms and hookworms.
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NexGard Plus: A monthly chewable that provides protection against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites.
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ProHeart 12: A once-yearly injection that offers 12 months of continuous heartworm prevention.
Additionally, our online pharmacy provides access to various other preventatives, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your pet's lifestyle and needs.
Treatment of Heartworm Disease
If a dog is diagnosed with heartworm disease, treatment involves a multi-step process aimed at eliminating the heartworms while minimizing treatment-related complications. The American Heartworm Society recommends a three-dose regimen of melarsomine dihydrochloride (Immiticide):
First Injection: An initial dose is administered to start reducing the adult heartworm population.
Second and Third Injections: Given 24 hours apart, one month after the first injection, to eliminate the remaining adult heartworms.
Throughout the treatment period, strict exercise restriction is crucial to reduce the risk of complications such as pulmonary thromboembolism. Treatment can be challenging and carries potential risks, reinforcing the importance of prevention.
Our Commitment to Your Dog's Health
At The Hometown Veterinarian, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to protect your dog from heartworm disease. By emphasizing prevention, offering annual testing, and providing a range of preventative options, we aim to keep your canine companion healthy and heartworm-free.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at 641-758-3333 or Request an Appointment.
Additional Resources
To learn more about heartworm disease and how to protect your pet, visit the American Heartworm Society, a leading authority on heartworm prevention, diagnosis, and treatment:
These resources offer expert guidance and comprehensive information to help you keep your dog safe from heartworm disease.
References: American Heartworm Society, IDEXX Laboratories