Canine heartworms have been found in dogs in all 50 states and in
many countries around the world. Adult heartworms can grow up to 12
inches in length and live in the large blood vessels of the lungs and in the
heart. Adult heartworms mate to produce immature worms called
microfilaria. These worms circulate in the bloodstream. Veterinarians
routinely identify dogs with heartworms by performing blood tests that
detect a substance within the worm called heartworm antigen.
Heartworms are transmitted to heartworm free dogs by the bite of
mosquitoes that carry the infectious immature worms. Mosquitoes
become infected when they feed on dogs carrying the microfilaria. It
takes about 6 months for adult heartworms to develop in dogs,
following the bite of an infected mosquito. Adult worms can damage
the lung’s blood vessels, heart, or secondarily damage other body
organs. Dogs with heartworms may cough, tire easily, or develop
heart failure and die. Not every infected dog will show clinical signs
of illness, even though they may harbor many adult worms.
Heartworm-carrying mosquitoes are present in Florida all year
long, so it is essential that all dogs are given heartworm preventatives
ALL YEAR. The most common products are the oral, once a month
preventatives. Some products not only prevent heartworms, they
also treat against intestinal parasites and fleas. For those dogs that
refuse to take oral medication, or if remembering to give a monthly
preventative is difficult for the owner, there is another option. It is
an injectable preventative that lasts for 6 months and protects
against heartworms and hookworms.
Our canine friends deserve to be heartworm free. Please call us so
that we can help you chose the heartworm medication that suits your
pet’s lifestyle and medical condition.
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