Every dog owner must understand the danger of heartworms to your pet.  These worms are related to round worms, but can be fatal to your dog.  They are transferred from mosquitoes to your dog, and live in the right side of the heart.  These worms can also be found in the blood vessels that connect your dog’s heart to his or her lungs. 

It is unfortunate that dog rescuers see heartworms more often than you would expect.  Many of these poor dogs have been neglected, and have probably never set paw into a vet’s office.  Once they reach their rescue and salvation, it is devastating to find they are infected with adult heartworms, and will most likely die – just as they were to begin a new and happy life.

Sadly, the American Heartworm Society has reported that only 50% of dogs that live in areas where infected mosquitoes are prevalent are actually protected against heartworms.  As a responsible dog owner, it is your job to protect your furry friend from heartworms, no matter what area you live in. 

Symptoms of heartworms may include a cough, inability to run and play, difficulty breathing, irregular heart and lung sounds and an enlarged liver. 

To help prevent heartworms, ask your veterinarian to test your dog annually.  Then have your vet prescribe a heartworm preventative for your pooch.  Even if you only see mosquitoes in the summer, you should still protect your dog year round.  Heartworm preventatives kill the larvae before they can cause serious damage and death.  The most common form is given as a pill once a month.  Most dogs consider this a tasty treat, and will eat it from your hand. 

If you have a dog that is infected with adult heartworms, he or she will be given adulticides to kill the adult heartworms.  If the heartworm cycle has reached this stage, your dog is in danger of death.  The adulticide alone is a powerful and sometimes devastating drug to your dog.  If he survives the treatment, he may still lose the battle as adult heartworms die and potentially cause blockages in the heart and respiratory system.  It is best to simply give your dog preventative care all year round – after all, your dog is your best friend! 

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