Heartworm is a concern for dog owners nationwide, but if you’re living in Florida, the stakes are even higher. Our state’s warm, humid climate makes it a breeding ground for mosquitoes, the primary carriers of heartworms. In this blog, we’ll discuss heartworm, its signs and symptoms, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and what you can do as a dog owner.
What is Heartworm?
Heartworm is a parasitic infection caused by the parasitic worm Dirofilaria immitis, transmitted through an infected mosquito’s bite. When a mosquito carrying heartworm larvae bites your dog, it deposits the larvae onto the skin, which then enters the bloodstream.
Once inside the host, the larvae travel through the bloodstream to the heart and surrounding arteries, where they mature into adult worms. This maturation process takes about 6-7 months. Adult heartworms can grow in excess of a dozen inches and live for 5-7 years. These worms can reproduce during their lifespan, releasing more larvae (microfilariae) into the bloodstream. These microfilariae can then be picked up by another mosquito, continuing the life cycle and spreading the disease to other animals.
Signs and Symptoms
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of heartworm infection helps with early detection and effective treatment. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
Mild Persistent Cough: A soft, dry cough is one of the earliest signs of heartworm infection. This occurs because the worms create blockages in the pulmonary arteries, causing discomfort in the lungs.
Reluctance to Exercise: Dogs infected with heartworm often become lethargic and show little interest in physical activities they once enjoyed. Inevitably, this lack of exercise can lead to other health conditions stemming from a sedentary lifestyle.
Fatigue After Moderate Activity: Even if your dog does engage in exercise, you may notice that they tire easily. This fatigue is due to the decreased efficiency of their heart and lungs, compromised by the presence of heartworms.
Decreased Appetite and Weight Loss: As the disease progresses, dogs may lose their appetite, leading to noticeable weight loss. This lack of nutrients may be evident by a general decline in condition, including a dull coat and sunken eyes.
Heartworm Diagnosis and Treatment
Early heartworm detection is vital for successful treatment and long-term success; regular blood work and antigen tests can help with this. These tests can identify specific heartworm proteins or microfilariae in your dog’s blood, often before symptoms even appear. If diagnosed, FDA-approved drugs like Melarsomine are commonly used for treatment. The general protocol involves an initial 30-day Doxycycline course followed by a series of Melarsomine injections. Along with these treatments, your vet may recommend exercise restrictions to minimize complications. Consult your vet for a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
Training Your Dog to Take Heartworm Medication
Administering medication to dogs can often be a challenging task for pet owners. Whether it’s the size of the pill or the dog’s natural aversion to anything medicinal, the struggle is real.
One popular method to ease this process is using pill pockets – soft, edible treats with a hollow center where you can place the medication. These treats mask the smell and taste of the pill, making it easier for your dog to swallow. Another option is to mix the medication with your dog’s food. Crushing the pill and combining it with wet food can often do the trick. However, always consult your vet before crushing any medication, as some are designed to be slow-release or could be harmful if ingested in a crushed form.
While these tricks can be effective, they’re not foolproof. A trained dog is likelier to follow commands and accept medication without fuss. Specialized training programs can teach your dog to associate medication time with positive experiences, making the process smoother for both you and your pet.
Gluf Coast K9 Dog Trainers Love your Dog!
Training your dog is one of the best ways to keep him safe and happy. If you are looking for a Sarasota or Bradenton dog training school to train your dog as a puppy or to reinforce what he already knows, call Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training today to learn more.
