Spring Into Heartworm Prevention: Why It Matters Year-Round
As the season changes and we look forward to spending more time outside, it’s a great time to refresh our knowledge about heartworm disease.
Heartworm disease is caused by parasitic worms that are transmitted through mosquito bites. Once infected, the worms live in the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels, leading to lung disease, heart failure, and potentially other organ damage. According to the American Heartworm Society, “heartworm disease has been diagnosed in all 50 states”.
Although the southeastern region of the United States sees a significantly higher prevalence due to the warm and humid weather – there are serious risks for heartworm disease in Minnesota as well. Because mosquitoes become active in warmer weather, the Minnesota risk of transmission increases during spring and summer. However, prevention is important year-round, as mosquitoes can survive indoors and during mild winters. Thankfully, there are many safe, affordable, and convenient options to prevent heartworm disease.
Key reminders:
- Heartworm disease can affect dogs and cats.
- Early stages often show no symptoms.
- Treatment for dogs is expensive and can be risky.
- There is no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats.
- Monthly preventives are safe, effective, and far less costly than treatment.
- Annual heartworm testing is recommended for dogs, even when on prevention.
- Book an annual heartworm test and well-visit check-up for your pet.
- Mark your calendar as a reminder for monthly doses of heartworm medication.
- Remind friends and family to do the same for their pets!
Keep your pet’s heart full of love and joy, not worms!
