What are Heartworms?
Heartworms are a serious and potentially fatal disease in pets, especially prevalent in dogs, cats, and ferrets. The worms are spread through the bite of a mosquito. The heartworm is a type of filarial worm, a small thread-like worm, that causes dirofilariasis. The definitive host is the dog but it can also infect cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes and other animals, such as ferrets, sea lions and even, under very rare circumstances, humans.
How to Prevent Heartworms
Preventing heartworms is an essential part of taking care of your dog. Heartworm prevention can be achieved through several methods:
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Heartworm Medications: There are many heartworm medications available in the form of pills, topicals, and injectables. These medications are often administered monthly and are highly effective when given consistently and on schedule.
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Year-Round Prevention: While some people only give heartworm preventives to their dogs during mosquito season, year-round prevention is the best way to ensure your dog remains heartworm free.
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Regular Vet Check-ups: Regular visits to the vet can help catch any heartworm infestation early before it becomes serious. Most vets recommend that dogs be tested for heartworms annually.
Treatment Options for Heartworms
When it comes to treating heartworms, there are several options available. However, it’s important to note that treatment can be expensive and dangerous, hence prevention is always better.
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Melarsomine Dihydrochloride: This is an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of heartworms in dogs. It is given by injection and kills the adult heartworms. This drug is also known by the brand name Immiticide.
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Doxycycline and Ivermectin: These drugs are used to kill the bacteria Wolbachia, which lives inside heartworms. Doxycycline and ivermectin are often given together for a period of four to six weeks.
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Heartworm Surgery: In severe cases of heartworm disease, surgical removal of the heartworms may be necessary.
| Treatment Option | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Melarsomine Dihydrochloride | Kills adult heartworms | Administered via injection |
| Doxycycline and Ivermectin | Kills Wolbachia bacteria inside heartworms | 4-6 weeks |
| Heartworm Surgery | Removes heartworms surgically | Varies |
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of heartworms can greatly improve the outcome of treatment. Symptoms of heartworm disease may not appear until the disease is advanced. However, some signs that your dog may have heartworms include a mild persistent cough, reluctance to exercise, fatigue after moderate activity, decreased appetite, and weight loss.
Aftercare and Recovery
Aftercare for dogs undergoing heartworm treatment may include:
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Restricting exercise: This is because physical exertion increases the rate at which the heartworms cause damage in the heart and lungs.
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Giving medications as prescribed: It’s crucial to follow your vet’s instructions closely, as your dog may need multiple treatments and medications.
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Regular follow-up appointments with your vet: These are necessary to test for the presence of heartworms and monitor your dog’s recovery.
FAQ
Q: How common are heartworms in dogs?
A: Heartworm disease is a common disease in dogs in the United States and many other parts of the world. It is particularly common in areas with a large mosquito population.
Q: How long do heartworms live in a dog?
A: If left untreated, heartworms can live for 5 to 7 years in dogs.
Q: Can heartworms be transmitted from dog to dog?
A: No, heartworms cannot be transmitted directly from one dog to another. They are transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Q: Can humans get heartworms from dogs?
A: It is extremely rare, but it is possible for humans to get heartworms. However, the heartworms do not usually survive to the adult stage in humans.
Q: Can heartworms be prevented?
A: Yes, there are several heartworm preventives available. These are usually given to dogs on a monthly basis to prevent heartworm disease.
