Preventing Infection
Heartworm is a parasite of the heart. It is transmitted by a mosquito bite. As the mosquito bites the dog, it injects larvae into tissues which are then absorbed into the blood stream. The larvae matures and travels to the heart where the adult worm will live and reproduce. New immature forms (microfilaria) will be released into the blood stream by the adult. When another mosquito bites the dog, this blood will transmit the immature form to other dogs.
If heartworms are not treated they can interfere with the normal flow of the blood in the heart and the vessel serving the lungs , reducing the quality of life of your dog significantly and eventually can cause congestive heart failure and death. Cats may also be infected by heartworms, there is a test available to diagnose the parasite but there is no treatment available. Prevention is highly recommended year round.
Heartworm is a curable disease in dogs, but treatment is risky and expensive. Prevention is very easy. A Heartguard Plus® chewable is given once a month, preferably on the same day each month. If given faithfully this is an effective preventative. The makers of Heartguard Plus® guarantee its effectiveness as long as it is given to the dog every month and the pet is tested for heartworm yearly.
Heartguard Plus® also treats and prevents intestinal parasites such as hookworm and roundworm. It is safe to use in puppies after they are 7 weeks old.
Revolution® a topical preventative absorbed by the skin that not only prevent Heartworm disease but also ear mites, some intestinal parasites, fleas & some kind of ticks. It can be use on puppies 8 weeks and older.
Florida is a mosquito endemic area, therefore a Heartworm Preventative should be used year round.
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