Prevent Heartworm in a Dog

Heartworm disease affects many canines and if not treated properly can be lethal. The disease spreads rapidly by mosquitoes. These worms are tiny, first moving into a canine's tissues and then into the heart. These worms are extremely small, moving into a canine's tissues and then onto their heart where they grow and reproduce. Undeveloped heartworms go out into the bloodstream where they await another mosquito to pick them up. Thus the disease moves on to the next victim. Daily exercise and routine bathroom needs expose them to nature's elements.

Canines are nosy and playful, but should be kept away from stray or wild animals. At some point the canine will be exposed to fresh air for exercise or using the bathroom. It is important to avoid contact between your pooch and stray or wild animals. Many dog parks that are not properly cared for become a breeding ground for heartworms. Do not let your pet eat their own feces or that of another animal. This is a common opportunity for getting intestinal parasites. These injections should be given on a specific day every month during mosquito breeding season.

It needs to be administered during mosquito breeding season on the same day each month. Popular brands of vaccines administered by veterinarians include HeartGard, Interceptor, Sentinel and Revolution. This destroys the heartworm larvae, preventing them from maturing. Never purchase them from an online pet supplier promising cheaper prices, ensure your canine receives the correct kind and dosage. Avoid purchasing them from an online pet store to ensure your canine receives the correct type and dosage. Preventative treatments can only begin if your dog has tested negative to heartworms.

A veterinarian will draw blood and test it in the office or send it off to a lab. Results come back quickly and management can begin. Only adult dogs are tested since the detection takes 6 months after exposure. Some veterinarians will want your canine tested every year depending on where you live.

Dogs with heartworm disease will demonstrate noticeable signs of congestive heart failure. Treatment is pricey and will not cure the condition. Preventative steps will help your dog live a long and healthy life.

Visit this website for information on Heartgard Plus For Dogs. And, you can also treat your dogs with personalized dog collars which also has anti-worm effect too.