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Heartworm Info
The Importance of Heartworm Preventatives
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Heartworm Blog Topics
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Dr. Michael Dym
Holistic & Conventional Veterinarian
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"Over 19 years of caring for
the well-being of pets"
Visit his Ask the Vet blog.
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The Importance of Heartworm Preventatives
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If your pet is not on a monthly heartworm preventative, the risks of contracting this potentially fatal disease are significantly increased. It takes only one heartworm-carrying mosquito to infect your pet. Worst of all, adult heartworms can survive in dogs for up to seven years, and in cats they may survive from a few months up to several years.
Help reduce your pet's risk for contracting heartworm disease by following these simple steps:
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Have Your Pet Tested Annually
Despite monthly prevention, there are reported instances where pets are infected with heartworms. As a result, consistent testing by your veterinarian is one of the best ways to ensure your pet remains heartworm free. For pets that contract heartworm disease, conventional treatment usually requires ongoing, expensive visits to the veterinarian office for x-rays, blood work, and injections.
Although there are heartworm treatments available for dogs, there can be serious risks involved depending on your dog's health at the time of diagnosis. For dogs with severe heartworm disease, treatment may be too harsh on the respiratory system, in that case your veterinarian will determine the best treatment plan for your pet.
Although it's estimated that 95% of dogs diagnosed with heartworms are treated successfully, there is currently no effective and safe medical treatment for cats infected with heartworm disease.
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Video: Learn More About Preventing
Heartworm Disease in Pets
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Max's Tip: Common signs of heartworm disease include persistent cough, weakness, sudden weight loss, and trouble breathing. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, you should consult your veterinarian immediately.
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