Heartworms are common in dogs throughout the United States (cats can have them, too). They are among the most damaging parasites that can be found in our canine companions. Heartworms are transmitted through the bite of mosquitoes and, once mature, take residence in the heart and large vessels of the lungs.

The adult female heartworm can measure from 9 to 16 inches in length. The males are a little more than half as long and are easily identified by your veterinarian because of their corkscrew-like appearance.

Heartworm infection can affect many different organs of the dog — heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver, for example — so symptoms may be varied. The initial symptom of heartworms is usually coughing, so your veterinarian may suspect that an animal has been infected if an active animal tires easily or shows shortness of breath or coughing. Usually only one blood test is needed; however, more tests may be necessary for your veterinarian  to determine whether or not your dog has heartworms and to determine the proper treatment to be used.

Heartworms have been found in dogs in all 50 states so all dogs are at risk, even those animals that primarily live indoors. However, heartworms have been 100 percent preventable for decades.

Ask us about heartworm testing and prevention for your dog. Preventive treatment should begin at 6 or 8 weeks of age (no later than 4 months of age) in puppies, and after tests have been conducted in puppies older than 4 months of age and adult dogs to determine if your dog has already been infected. If your dog does have heartworms, we can advise you about treatment options.