National Heartworm Awareness Month: What You Should Know

This month is National Heartworm Awareness Month. With warm weather and mosquito season on the horizon, now is a very good time to familiarize yourself with this serious illness and educate yourself on how you can safeguard your canine companion. At PetVet Animal Hospital, our skilled veterinarians supply effective heartworm prevention products for pets near Noblesville and are here to help you give your canine companion the healthy, happy life they deserve. Read on to learn more.

What Is Heartworm?

Heartworm disease occurs when an infected mosquito bites a dog or another animal. The heartworms grow up to 12 inches in length and live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, resulting in severe damage. When the disease is left untreated, the worms continue to grow and reproduce, which leads to further complications, like poor general health and, in some cases, premature death.

The symptoms of heartworm disease include:

• Cough
• Fatigue after even light exercise
• Unexplained weight loss
• Decreased appetite
• Bloated abdomen
• Light-colored gums
• Labored breathing

How to Prevent Heartworm

Heartworm is extremely difficult to treat. And even with treatment, the damage caused {is can be permanent}. Because of this, heartworm prevention is so important for dogs. Heartworm preventatives are available in numerous forms, such as chewable pills, topicals, and injectable medications.

According to the American Heartworm Society, you should keep your canine companion on medication to prevent heartworm year-round, even when mosquitos aren't prevalent. All dogs need yearly heartworm testing, too, even if they are on a preventative. While highly effective, no preventative medication offers 100% guaranteed protection. Having your dog tested each year gives their veterinarian to detect and begin treatment for infections in their early stages when they are most treatable.

Call Now for Heartworm Prevention near Noblesville

For safe and effective heartworm prevention in Noblesville and the surrounding areas, depend on PetVet Animal Hospital. Our veterinarians offer heartworm testing and will help you determine which type of heartworm preventative is best for your beloved pet. With our assistance, your canine companion will enjoy a long, healthy life free from dangerous parasites. Call today to make your pet's appointment.