What is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is a serious illness affecting dogs, cats, and ferrets. It is caused by a parasitic nematode (roundworm) commonly known as the heartworm. This disease is preventable with regular administration of a heartworm prophylaxis (preventative medication), as recommended by a veterinarian. At Cornerstone Animal Hospital, we offer a wide range of affordable heartworm prevention options for your pet.

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Where is it prevalent?

For heartworm prevalence in the USA, please visit The Heartworm Society.

Is it preventable?

Heartworm disease can be prevented by administering heartworm prophylaxis medication as advised by your veterinarian.

At Cornerstone Animal Hospital, we offer many affordable options. Be sure to check out our great promotions on heartworm medications.

Symptoms

Dogs with mild heartworm infection often show no symptoms or may have only a mild occasional cough. Moderate cases typically show coughing and exercise intolerance. Severe infections can cause anemia, fainting, and right-sided chronic heart failure.

Diagnosis

The simplest way to diagnose heartworm infection is through a heartworm test at your veterinarian’s office. At Cornerstone Animal Hospital, the test takes less than fifteen minutes. Dogs six months or older should test negative before starting prevention. Even puppies started on prevention early should be tested at six months. It takes about six months for heartworms to mature and be detectable by testing.

If heartworm is suspected, additional diagnostics like electrocardiograms, X-rays, and urine analysis may be performed.

Infection

Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes carrying infective larvae. These larvae migrate through the pet’s body over about six months, eventually reaching the heart and lungs. Adult heartworms can grow up to 12 inches long and release microfilariae (immature worms) into the bloodstream. The severity of the disease depends on worm load, duration, and the pet’s response.

Heartworm Treatment

If your pet tests positive, prompt treatment is necessary. Initial treatment aims to kill adult heartworms and involves careful staging through exams, X-rays, bloodwork, ECG, and urine tests. Severe cases may pose treatment risks. Adulticide injections are given three times, with close monitoring and hospitalization to manage reactions. Supportive care and pain management are provided. Pre-treatment with antibiotics is common. Monthly preventive medication helps eliminate young larvae, and pets are re-tested 4-6 months after treatment.

Post-Treatment Management

After treatment, activity should be strictly limited for 4-6 weeks. We recommend a follow-up antigen test 4-6 months post-treatment. If still positive, additional treatment or surgery may be needed.

For more information on heartworm prevention, please contact us at (817) 514-8387.