Welcome all Bloomington dog owners! Are you among the millions of people nationwide who own a dog? If you are, then you know how important it is to keep their health in check. Heartworm disease can quickly become traumatic for your beloved pooch, but there's no need to worry. At Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital, we understand the importance of keeping your dog healthy and taking all steps necessary to prevent heartworm. Below are the most commonly asked questions we get about heartworm disease.
How Do Heartworms Get in Dogs?
Mosquitoes aren't only a nuisance for humans, as they can also create problems for our pooches. Heartworm occurs when a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae bites your dog. The larvae are introduced to a host's bloodstream via these bites. The larvae then cause severe damage to the heart and lungs of the host animal.
What Are the Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Dogs?
Heartworm disease symptoms can sometimes be difficult to identify in dogs. Symptoms include coughing, loss of appetite, fatigue, and weight loss. If you suspect your dog may have heartworm, it's important to contact our vet immediately before symptoms worsen.
How Do Veterinarians Help with Heartworm Disease?
The first thing our vet will do is confirm your pet's heartworm diagnosis. This is done by running a series of tests and taking X-rays. Comprehensive treatment plans can include topical and oral medications and injections to help eliminate heartworm.
Can Heartworm Be Prevented?
You can do several things at home to help prevent heartworms between visits to the veterinarian. First, we suggest giving your dog regular heartworm medication. You can also take other preventive measures, such as keeping your pet away from areas with standing water.
Why Is Heartworm Disease So Dangerous for Dogs?
You wouldn't think something so small and seemingly insignificant could cause a major problem. As we said earlier, the disease caused by heartworms inflicts serious damage to your dog's heart and major organs. If left untreated, it can be fatal.
Make an Appointment with Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital
Heartworm is something you should never take lightly. We all want the best life for our dogs, free from pain and discomfort. If you're noticing signs of heartworm, don't hesitate to contact us. Our staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to help your pet stay healthy and happy. Schedule an appointment with Fairway Knolls Veterinary Hospital.