Heartworm disease and seasonal parasite prevention

Spring is at the doorstep and nature is waking up. The bugs are going to be out there soon and it’s time to get our pets ready for the season. Heartworm disease and other parasite related diseases are the main seasonal health concerns. In order to protect our pets, it is important to start preventative treatment early on. 

Heartworms are round worms that can reach one foot in length. They are transmitted by mosquitoes and infest the heart and lungs of dogs and many other species, causing a deadly disease.

The transmission occurs when a carrier mosquito bites the victim and injects the heartworm larvae into the body. Within approximately three to four months, the larvae migrate in the circulating blood and reside in the heart and lung vasculature. They mature, multiply and release larvae into the circulation. The larvae are eventually ingested by a mosquito during a blood meal. The cycle is now completed and the new carrier mosquito is ready to propagate the disease.

Dogs are the elective host for heartworms and are the most susceptible species. Cats and other animals are also at risk of contracting the disease. Heavy burden of worms generally is fatal.

The American Heartworm society recommends a heartworm test followed by preventative treatment during the warm season, as long as mosquitoes are active. Year round treatment is recommended for dogs that live in temperate regions or for sporting and hunting dogs.

Other parasites such as fleas, ticks and intestinal worms are also active in the spring. We often incorporate parasite control program in the seasonal preventative care. Parasite control is important not only because of the parasites themselves, but also because may transmit other diseases to pets and people such as Lyme’s disease, West Nile encephalitis and Q fever.

There are several heartworm and other parasite preventatives, which are proven to be effective. Most are in the form of tablets or flavored chewable blocks. Some newer products include liquid applied to the skin and injection of sustained release drug. Many of the products have combined multi parasite effects. Pet owners should consult their veterinarian regarding the product most suitable for them.

We recommend products that have been on the market for a while and show good safety and efficacy records in the field. Of label and unlicensed products may be dangerous or inefficacious. All products may be toxic at high dosage and should be used only under veterinary supervision according to their manufacturer label.