Heartworm Disease in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially fatal condition that can silently threaten your dog’s health. At Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to helping you understand heartworms, prevent infection, and keep your dog safe.
What Are Heartworms and How Do They Affect Dogs?
Heartworms are parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels of infected dogs. Over time, these worms cause severe lung disease, heart failure, organ damage, and can even lead to death if left untreated.
How Does a Dog Get Heartworm?
Heartworms are spread through mosquito bites. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it picks up microscopic heartworm larvae, which are then transmitted to other dogs the mosquito bites. Your dog doesn’t have to be in a high-risk environment—just one mosquito bite can lead to infection.
What Are the Signs of Heartworm in a Dog?
Heartworm disease often progresses silently at first. As the worms grow, you may notice:
- Mild, persistent cough
- Fatigue after moderate activity
- Weight loss
- Swollen belly due to fluid buildup
In advanced cases, dogs can experience heart failure and difficulty breathing.
How Will a Veterinarian Diagnose Heartworm in a Dog?
Diagnosis is done through a simple blood test that detects heartworm proteins. In some cases, additional tests—like X-rays or ultrasounds—are needed to assess the extent of the infection.
When Should My Dog Be Tested for Heartworm?
We recommend:
- Testing puppies over 6 months old
- Annual testing for all dogs, even those on regular prevention, to ensure no gaps in protection
How Do I Get a Dog Heartworm Test Done?
It’s easy—just schedule a visit with us. The test involves a quick blood draw, and results are usually available the same day.
What Happens if My Dog Tests Positive for Heartworm?
If your dog tests positive, we’ll confirm the diagnosis and begin a treatment plan. This typically includes medications to kill adult heartworms and larvae, along with strict activity restriction to reduce complications.
What Will Happen to My Dog if the Heartworm Is Left Untreated?
Untreated heartworm disease causes progressive damage to the heart and lungs, eventually leading to heart failure, severe lung disease, and death. Early detection and treatment are critical.
Can Heartworm Be Passed from Dog to Dog?
No. Heartworms can’t spread directly between dogs. They must be transmitted through mosquitoes.
What Can I Do to Prevent My Dog from Getting Heartworm?
The best protection is year-round use of heartworm preventatives, which are available as monthly chewables, topical treatments, or long-lasting injections. Avoiding mosquito exposure also helps reduce risk.
Is There a Dog Heartworm Vaccine Available?
No, there is currently no vaccine for heartworm disease. Prevention relies on consistent use of preventatives.
What Should I Do if I Forgot to Give My Dog Their Heartworm Preventative?
If you’ve missed a dose, give it as soon as you remember and contact us for guidance. Your dog may need to be tested before restarting prevention to ensure they are not infected.
Do All Dogs Need Heartworm Preventives?
Yes. Even indoor dogs are at risk because mosquitoes can get inside homes. Year-round prevention is essential for all dogs.
Is It Safe to Give Heartworm Preventives to a Pregnant or Nursing Dog?
Most heartworm preventatives are safe for pregnant and nursing dogs, but it’s important to discuss the best option with your veterinarian.
Are Heartworm Preventatives Safe for Dogs?
Yes. The products we recommend are thoroughly tested and safe for most dogs when used as directed. Rare side effects can occur, but they are usually mild.
How Often Does a Dog Need Heartworm Medicine?
Most heartworm preventatives are given monthly, while some injectable options provide protection for up to 6 months. We’ll help you choose the best plan for your dog’s lifestyle.
How Will My Veterinarian Treat a Heartworm Positive Dog?
Treatment typically involves:
- Medications to kill adult worms and larvae
- Antibiotics to target bacteria that help heartworms survive
- Anti-inflammatory medications to manage symptoms
- Strict exercise restriction during treatment
We’ll guide you through every step to keep your dog as safe and comfortable as possible.
How Successful Is the Treatment for Heartworms?
With early detection and proper care, treatment is highly effective. However, heartworm disease can cause lasting damage, so prevention is always the best approach.
Need Heartworm Testing or Prevention?
We’re here to help keep your dog heartworm-free. Call Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital today to schedule a heartworm test or discuss the best prevention plan for your pet.
If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (503) 968-2911, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!