Understanding Heartworm Disease in Dogs: What You Need to Know

The Dangers of Heartworm Disease

You are in your veterinarian's office and hear something terrifying. Your dog has heartworm disease. This news is concerning, and rightfully so. Heartworm disease is a life-threatening infection caused by parasitic worms that live in your dog's heart and lungs. Without treatment to eliminate the parasites, your dog's life is at risk. But how did they get there, and what can you do about it? Let's take a closer look.

How Heartworms Are Transmitted

For your dog, this story actually began months or even years earlier, when he was bitten by a mosquito. Mosquitos can transmit heartworm larvae from dog to dog. The larvae then take months to grow into adult heartworms that live in your dog's heart. It’s important to note that a dog infected with heartworm disease cannot transmit the worms to another dog directly. Instead, mosquitos act as the mode of transportation from one dog to the next. So, what can you do to protect your furry friend?

Prevention Is Key

Like most medical issues, prevention is vital! For as little as $5 per month, you can provide your dog with a treat-like medication. This medication ensures that mosquitos can't pass heartworms through their bites. These preventative treatments kill the worms before they ever have the chance to develop into adults. Just one dose every 30 days is all it takes for your dog to remain safe.

The Cost of Treatment

If your dog already has a heartworm infection, the treatment becomes much more expensive and complicated. The medications and vet costs necessary for treatment can run as high as $2,000. But that isn't the only bad news. Extracting those worms from your dog's heart usually requires a 4-month treatment. This involves injections of medication to slowly kill the parasites in the heart.

Unlike intestinal parasites that can easily exit your dog's body, dead heartworms do not have such a straightforward exit. They must be absorbed internally as they die and float through the bloodstream. There's a risk that the worms may break off too quickly, potentially causing a blockage in your dog's circulatory system. This can lead to severe issues or even death.

The Importance of Rest

Given these risks, the treatment requires your beloved pet to be on strict bed rest throughout the process. This is crucial. A spike in heart rate or blood pressure could cause a worm to detach and create a blockage. Treatment for heartworm disease has a high success rate, but the journey can be painful. Most importantly, it is preventable.

Steps for Treatment

Ask your veterinarian for advice on which heartworm preventative is best suited for your dog. They can provide recommendations tailored to your pet's health and lifestyle.

Heartworm Disease: A Personal Story

This closer look at heartworm disease is something that Happy Bark is facing as you read this blog. Happy Bark rescued Ray and DeDe from crowded shelters in Kentucky. These dogs were facing an unknown future when we committed to finding them better lives. Unfortunately, both tested positive for heartworm disease.

Currently, both Ray and DeDe are undergoing the same heartworm treatment you just read about. Happy Bark is committed to seeing them through this tough phase.

How You Can Help

It’s easy to help Happy Bark pay for these treatments. Any amount helps! Head over to our donation page to support us in offsetting this costly expense.

Final Thoughts

Heartworm disease can indeed feel like a daunting challenge. However, understanding the disease, its transmission, and the importance of prevention can make all the difference. Remember, regular veterinary care and preventative medications can safeguard your dog from heartworm disease and other health issues. Keep your furry friend healthy and happy by taking proactive steps today!

Ray

DeDe