About the Different Types of Heartworm Pills for Dogs

This article offers some important information about heartworm medication for dogs, as well as some of the different options available for heartworm protection.

Significance

Heartworm disease in dogs is caused by a particular parasite that attacks the heart. Damage from these parasites can also negatively affect the liver, kidneys and lungs. This disease is dangerous, causing thousands of deaths a year in animals, yet the most important point is that this disease is fully preventable. Heartworm prevention in dogs has become increasingly popular over recent years and now is recommended by most vets as a crucial part of any domestic dog's healthy routine.

Benefits

Heartworm prevention for dogs starts when they are puppies. Most veterinarians recommend that dogs be put on regular heartworm medication at eight weeks of age and get their first test at seven months, to be repeated annually or as needed. This disease is dangerous, but it can be cured if caught in the early stages. Once the disease is cured in an infected dog, the dog can then be placed back on preventative medication.

Time Frame

Dogs are most likely to be infected with heartworm disease during mosquito season, since the infecting parasites are transported through the bite of a mosquito. The disease usually does not affect a dog noticeably in the initial stages, which is why prevention is so important. By the time symptoms can be detected, the disease has most likely advanced to a more dangerous stage. The disease in later stages can also be cured by a veterinarian, however the procedures will carry more risk for the dog.

Effects

The effects of heartworm disease infection include discomfort during exercise, problems breathing, nose bleeds, coughing and weight loss. At more advanced stages, once the parasite has infected multiple organs, the results can be collapse and loss of consciousness. At this severe stage it is crucial for a dog to get immediate medical attention.

Prevention/Solution

The safest way to deal with the threat of heartworm disease in dogs is to maintain a regular schedule of prevention. There are many methods of heartworm prevention, including topical as well as oral options. Speaking with your veterinarian is the safest way to choose the correct method for your dog. The main differences in methods of prevention include additional ingredients to prevent fleas and other parasites, methods of administration and in some cases individual breed requirements.