What to Do If Your Dog Has Heartworm: A Beginner's Guide
Heartworm - Start Here
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by foot-long worms that live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of affected pets. It can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs. If your dog has been diagnosed with heartworm, here’s what you need to know and the steps you should take to ensure your pet’s recovery.
Understanding Heartworm Disease
Heartworms are spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Once inside the dog, they mature into adults, mate, and produce offspring, causing extensive damage to the heart, lungs, and arteries.
Symptoms of Heartworm Disease
Early stages may not show any symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, you may notice:
- Mild persistent cough
- Fatigue after moderate activity
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Swollen belly due to excess fluid
- Difficulty breathing
Immediate Steps to Take
1. Confirm the Diagnosis
- Veterinary Tests: Your vet will conduct blood tests to confirm the presence of heartworm. X-rays, ultrasounds, and additional blood work might also be necessary to determine the extent of the infection.
2. Restrict Activity
- Why It’s Important: Physical exertion can increase the rate at which heartworms cause damage. Keeping your dog calm and restricting exercise is crucial to minimize stress on their heart and lungs.
3. Follow the Treatment Plan
- Medication: The American Heartworm Society recommends a multi-step treatment involving medications to kill adult heartworms and microfilariae (the baby worms).
- Doxycycline and Steroids: These are often prescribed to reduce the chance of complications.
- Melarsomine Injections: This drug is used to kill adult heartworms and is administered through a series of injections over several months.
- Follow-Up Tests: Regular testing after treatment ensures that all heartworms are eliminated.
4. Manage Side Effects
- Monitor for Reactions: Keep an eye on your dog for adverse reactions to the treatment, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
- Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to help manage any side effects of the heartworm treatment.
Long-Term Care and Prevention
1. Regular Vet Check-Ups
- Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your dog’s health and ensure the heartworms are completely eradicated.
2. Preventive Medications
- Monthly Preventives: Once your dog is heartworm-free, continue administering monthly heartworm preventives to protect against future infections.
- Year-Round Protection: Heartworm preventives should be given year-round, even in colder climates where mosquitoes are less common.
Lifestyle Adjustments
1. Diet and Nutrition
- Balanced Diet: Provide a nutritious diet to support your dog’s immune system during and after treatment.
- Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.
2. Exercise Restrictions
- Gradual Reintroduction: Slowly reintroduce exercise once your vet confirms your dog is heartworm-free. Avoid strenuous activities until your dog has fully recovered.
Emotional Support for Your Pet
Comfort and Care
- Calm Environment: Keep your dog in a quiet, stress-free environment during recovery.
- Attention and Affection: Spend quality time with your pet to provide emotional support and reassurance.
Preventing Future Infections
1. Mosquito Control
- Repellents and Sprays: Use pet-safe mosquito repellents and sprays around your home.
- Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours: Keep your dog indoors during early morning and evening when mosquitoes are most active.
Heartworm disease is a serious condition that requires prompt and ongoing care. By following your veterinarian’s treatment plan, restricting your dog’s activity, and maintaining regular follow-ups, you can help your dog recover and prevent future infections. Remember, prevention is the best strategy. Ensure your pet is on a year-round heartworm preventive to keep them safe from this potentially fatal disease.
