National Heartworm Awareness Month: What You Should Know

Did you know that April is National Heartworm Awareness Month? With summer coming up fast, there's never been a better opportunity to learn more about this potentially deadly disease and how you can safeguard your furry friend. Here at Delray Beach Animal Hospital, our skilled veterinarians provide effective heartworm prevention products for pets in Delray Beach and the surrounding areas and can help you give your canine companion the healthy, disease-free life they deserve. Keep scrolling to discover more about heartworm and how to prevent it.  

What Heartworm Disease Is

Heartworm disease is caused by heartworms transmitted via bites from infected mosquitos. The worms live inside of the heart, blood vessels, and lungs of the host animal. There they can grow up to a foot long and cause irreversible organ damage. When the disease is left untreated, the worms continue to grow and multiply, leading to additional complications, such as poor health and premature death in many situations.

The symptoms of heartworm disease in dogs include:

• Persistent cough
• Fatigue, especially after exercise
• Unexplained weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Swollen abdomen
• Light-colored gums
• Labored breathing or shortness of breath

Protecting Your Dog from Heartworm

Heartworm is very hard to treat. And even with treatment, the damage it leaves behind {is can be permanent}. For this reason, heartworm prevention is essential for dogs. Heartworm preventatives are readily available in numerous forms, such as injectable medications, chewable pills, and even topicals.

According to the American Heartworm Society, you should keep your canine companion on medication to prevent heartworm year-round. All dogs require annual heartworm testing, even if they are on a preventative medication. While heartworm preventatives are extremely effective, dogs can still become infected with heartworm disease. Annual testing allows veterinarians to begin appropriate treatment right away if heartworms are detected.

Heartworm Prevention in Delray Beach

For effective heartworm prevention in Delray Beach, depend on our skilled team. Our veterinarians offer heartworm screening and will help you decide which type of medication is right for your pet. With our assistance, they'll enjoy a long, healthy life free from dangerous parasites. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.