Heartworms – long, spaghetti-like worms that can grow 10-inches in length, live in
the hearts,
lungs and bloodstreams of infected dogs. Heartworm disease is spread when a mosquito bites
an infected dog. Microfilariae in the dog's blood mature into infective larvae in the mosquito,
which are transferred to another dog by the mosquito's bite. In approximately six months,
the larvae mature into adult heartworms.
Untreated, heartworms can lead to death in dogs. These are undoubtedly among the most
devastating of canine parasites. Fortunately, needless pain and suffering can be prevented
with an annual heartworm test and the medicine veterinarians prescribe most– IVERHART MAX®
(ivermectin/pyrantel pamoate/praziquantel) Chewable Tablets and IVERHART PLUS® (ivermectin/pyrantel) Flavored Chewables.
| Signs of Heartworm Disease |
Coughing
Lethargy
Exercise intolerance
|
Heavy Breathing
Weight Loss
|
Sources:
The American Heartworm Society
CAPC – Companion Animal Parasite Council
|