How Important Is Heartworm Medicine for Dogs

Heartworm medicine is very important for dogs. Mosquitoes transmit the disease from one dog to another. Veterinarians recommend that all dogs use a heartworm preventative to minimize the possibility of the dog becoming infected with heartworms. If a dog contracts heartworm, there may not be any noticeable signs until the heartworm is too advanced to treat, which will kill the dog.

Damage

When heartworms grow, they block the blood vessels, both large and small. If they block the blood vessels between the lungs and heart, the dog will die.

Indoor Dogs

Because mosquitoes can come indoors and most dogs go outside to do their business, even dogs that live indoors should take heartworm medications.

Complications

Heartworms can cause secondary complications that can result in the dog's death. Liver disease, kidney disease and heart failure are the three most common complications, all of which must be treated before treating the animal for heartworms.

Early Signs

Early signs of heartworms include fatigue, exhaustion and coughing. These can impact the quality of life for the dog, which is one reason heartworm medication is necessary for dogs.

Advanced Signs

If the heartworms continue to grow, the dog will begin to experience serious complications, including severe weight loss, a swollen abdomen, congestive heart failure, abnormal bleeding and fainting.

Resources

• Information on heartworms
• Information about heartworm infestation

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