HEARTWORMS (Dirofilaria immitis)

Heartworm, though highly avoidable, has the probable to be fatal, if contracted and left untreated.

Heartworm is broaden by mosquitoes, regularly during the warm months when mosquitoes are most active. The mosquito become infected from biting dogs that carry the disease. These dog worms demolish the muscle and tissue of the heart, which can cause congestive heart malfunction and result in death. At this advanced stage, your dog would experience the typical signs of worms, such as pot-belly, coughing, lack of energy and dull coat.

Unfortunately, there are no symptoms of this disease until it has progressed to an advanced stage. therefore, it is important to start your dog on a heartworm preventive such as HeartGard - Prescription Heartworm medication for Dogs & Cats at 6 months of age (after the first stage deworming process is complete. Check with your vet). Prevention is the best medicine.

General guidelines for dog worm prevention

• When walking your dog in a park, picking up his feces as a standard practice not only prevents soil contamination, but also prevents the spread of many other dog diseases.

• Regular visits to the vet and stool testing is a great way to prevent dog worms, as well as other illnesses. Twice-yearly worm testing is recommended. Make sure your dog is tested for worms before starting a heartworm preventative.

• High-risk dogs should be screened more often (check with your vet).

• Flea control is important because fleas are responsible for the spread of tapeworms.

• Most puppies find feces quite appetizing. Keep your dog away from feces: his own as well as others. This is the most common form of worm infestation.

• When cleaning your dog’s area, such as his bed or crate, spray it with a strong saltwater solution and let dry. This aids in the prevention of worms.

• Before traveling with your dog to obscure destinations, consult your vet of the potential risks to your dog.

• Avoid exposing your dog to stray animals, birds and dead rodents, which often harbor immature tapeworms that can mature inside your dog.

• Contact your vet if your dog displays any symptoms after receiving worm medication.

source: www.buzzle.com