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It never ceases to amaze me, how prevalent heartworm disease is here in Georgia. It is unfortunate how often we see heartworm positive dogs. We work closely with a rescue organization that takes in owner turn in’s and shelter dogs locally, and I would say, about 60% of their rescues come to us with heartworm disease.

To determine whether a pet has heartworm disease, we draw a blood sample and have results in minutes. If a dog comes back positive for heartworms, we then draw another blood sample to run an organ function screen to determine any other underlying problems. At which point, we take radiographs of the chest to get a visual of how much damage has been caused by the heartworm infection. In some cases, the heartworm load is so great that is actually changes the shape of the heart. We then stage the level of infection between one and four. Stage four, being the worst case scenario.

Stage fours patients generally have developed heart and lung disease due to the high burden of heartworms. Let alone a lifetime of medication to maintain proper heart function. The treatment itself is painful, expensive and demands bed rest for the dog. Which for a pup with lots of energy, can be quite a challenge keeping them calm and crated for the duration of treatment. This treatment can be around 6 weeks or more and can have negative side effects with complications.

Heartworms not only affect dogs, but cats are just as susceptible, regardless of being indoor or outdoor. Unfortunately, for cats, there is no treatment. The only way to protect them is through monthly preventatives, like Revolution®, which is what we recommend.

How does your pet get heartworms? Mosquitoes, mosquitoes, mosquitoes. We all know they thrive here in Georgia. Did you know we are number one in the country? All it takes is one hungry mosquito transmit this dangerous parasite into your pet’s bloodstream and cause a huge problem.

I hear clients say, “But my dog or cat is indoors”, “They really don’t go outside”…Let’s be realistic, have you ever had a mosquito inside your home? Of course, we all have. Even if your yard is treated, there is no guarantee a mosquito will not make its way inside your home. Every pet deserves to be protected against this potentially fatal disease. Monthly preventatives have come a long way. Not only are they very user friendly, but definitely more cost effective than heartworm treatment, which can be extremely expensive. For less than 50 cents a day, owners can have peace of mind that they are protecting their beloved fur kids.

Don’t ever hesitate to contact me, with questions about heartworm disease, preventatives or just to chat about your fur kid’s health.

Stay healthy…Until next time!

Dr Marcus Smith

https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm-basics