Heartworm is a particularly dangerous parasite that is spread from host to host via mosquitoes. A long thin worm known as filaris is commonly known to be found in dogs; many don't realize that they can also infect other animals such as sea lions, wolves, coyotes, ferrets, cats and shockingly, humans as well. The worm was named after its habit in the last stage of its reproductive cycle of taking up residence in heart of its host. If left untreated, the animal will find exertion harder and may faint under physical strain or experience extreme breathlessness. Eventually the animal can die of heart failure or failure of the kidneys, lungs and liver as the parasites also damage these organs.
Treatment is possible, but it is lengthy (18 months or more). It is also unpleasant for the animal, usually involving an arsenic compound or other heavy duty heartworm meds to kill the parasites, and may even require surgery. For the vast majority of the infection, you may not notice any symptoms.
A dog heartworm may take 6 to 7 months to move from introduction to the animal's system via mosquito bite, to its eventual landing in the heart. Fully matured female heart worms may reach a length of 30 centimeters, and males 23 centimeters. Mating occurs after seven months and microfilariae is produced by the females.
The spread of mosquito breeding grounds from strictly warm southern climates has lead to an increase in heart worm proliferation. Obviously, prevention of heartworms is far simpler and more effective than treatment after infection. Heartgard, a monthly prophylactic medication, contains ivermectin, a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic. Heartgard is popular for its ease of use, its relative inexpensiveness, and its effectiveness. Other heartworm preventatives include milbemycin which can be found in Interceptor heartworm treatment and moxidectin which is the effective ingredient in ProHeart. The most popular of these is Heartgard Plus.
Heartworm and other parasites can also be treated by using a topical application such as Revolution, which is not only a heartworm control, but also a program of flea control and parasite control. Heartworm protection is very effective thankfully, so there is no need for your pet to be adversely affected. Consult your vet to get your dog checked out. A blood test is the most common diagnostic tool, and medications can prevent and cure the infection if one is discovered. X-rays may be necessary for the vet to see the full extent of infection, should your animal test positive for heartworms.
Remember, especially in the case of heartworm infections, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Get informed by discussing canine heartworm with your vet at your dog's next visit. Treatment of a heartworm infestation can exceed thousands of dollars, and may not always be effective.
It's much more economically and health savvy to be proactive and focus on prevention.
Author Rebecca Foxton wants to help you bring your pet brilliant health with Heartgard Plus. Check out her nutrition tips for people with dogs and cats and visit her FortiFlora articles on Dog Buffs.
