April is Heartworm Awareness Month! Heartworms are extremely dangerous to our canine companions. Because they interfere with Fido’s heart, lungs, and arteries, they can make your beloved pet very sick, and can even be fatal. Read on as a local Frisco, TX vet offers some advice on keeping your furry pal safe from these horrible parasites.

Parasite Prevention

Parasite prevention is the biggest thing you can do to keep your pup safe from these horrible worms. Keep your canine buddy up to date on his preventative products! There are now many different options that you can choose from, such as oral medications and shots. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Testing

As mentioned above, parasite prevention is your best option for keeping your pooch safe. Unfortunately, there are some cases where dogs can still get infested, even if they are on heartworm prevention. Fido will be more vulnerable when it’s around the time for his next dose. Even small lapses may offer a window. There also unfortunately seem to be heartworms that are becoming resistant. This is just something that happens as parasites slowly become immune to preventative products. Be sure to have your furry buddy tested regularly. Better safe than sorry!

Mosquito Control

Heartworms are not spread by direct contact from pooch to pooch. Instead, they have somehow managed to get mosquitoes on board with transmitting them. There are over 30 types of mosquitoes that can spread heartworms. This is important for two reasons. One, because Fido will be at his vulnerable in the summer months, or when visiting areas where there are both dogs and mosquitoes. Two, because taking steps to eliminate mosquitos can help. Mosquitoes use standing water as nurseries, so don’t let rainwater collect in things like buckets or plant pots.

Knowing The Symptoms

It’s important to know what to look for. Coughing is usually the first symptom you’ll notice. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, weakness, lethargy, weight loss, depression, and reduced appetite. Fido may also not feel very playful or energetic. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these. There are treatments available, but immediate action is paramount. The sooner the issue is caught and treated, the better! Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care. As your Frisco, TX animal clinic, we are always here to help!