Even though your veterinarian may constantly discuss the dangers of heartworm infections, you may not truly understand this disease. As a matter of fact, one in 200 dogs will become infected with heartworms each year, so your dog could be at risk. This guide and your veterinarian's help will ensure you understand the causes, signs, and treatment options for heartworm disease.
Causes
One of the most important things you need to know is how your dog may become infected with heartworm disease. Most people are surprised to learn it is not transmitted by contact with other dogs who are infected. In fact, mosquitoes are actually what transmits the heartworm infection to your dog.
If a mosquito bites a dog who is already infected, it will begin carrying the infection. Then, this infected mosquito could bite your dog, transmitting the disease to your dog. The cycle continues from mosquito to dog, but never from dog to dog.
Signs
Unfortunately, knowing if your dog is infected with heartworms is difficult, since the infection does not show any signs immediately. As the heartworm grows, it multiplies, which causes symptoms to show.
Your dog may start coughing periodically during the initial stages of the infection. The cough will become more prominent and noticeable over time as the infection spreads. Your dog may also be weak, unwilling to exercise, play, run, or jump.
If the infection becomes even more severe, your dog's fatigue will increase. Many dogs will also faint due to their weakness and dizziness. A loss of appetite and weight loss are also common in dogs who have heartworm.
During the later stages of heartworm disease when the infection is much more severe, your dog may develop cardiovascular issues, causing them to have labored breathing and dark-colored urine. In many instances, dogs who are in this late stage of the disease will not survive.
Treatment
Although life-threatening, a heartworm infection can be treated if caught early.
Your dog will need to be confined to reduce their activity, since exertion will place too much stress on the heart and lungs, which can aggravate and increase the growth of the heartworms.
Different medications will be used to kill the worms, as well, preventing them from growing and multiplying.
It is important to note that prevention is your best weapon against heartworm. Contact an animal care hospital to learn more about preventative medication to protect your dog from heartworm disease.
