Spring is coming; even in Minnesota there are signs of spring: warmer temperatures, and a little bit of green in my garden – weeds. Soon we will have spring showers, and then the mosquitoes will be out.
Mosquitoes can carry heartworm, a potentially lethal infection for dogs. Here in MN it’s time to have the heartworm exam done, and beginning May 1, my dogs Teddy and Emmie will begin their monthly heartworm regime. Why is this important for dogs?
Heartworm is a parasitic infection caused by bites of the culicine mosquitoes. When a dog receives the bite, the heartworm larva remain around the bite wound for two months as they grow into adult worms. Then they enter the bloodstream and migrate to the dog’s heart and lungs, where they begin their own regenerative cycle. They can be 6-14 inches in length and can live in the dog 5-7 years.
Dogs need to be tested yearly for heartworm because there are not any visible signs of the infection in early stages. In severe cases of heartworm, your dog may exhibit the following:
- Cough
- An intolerance to exercise
- Difficulty with breathing
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
Once a dog shows symptoms, hospitalization is almost always required because of how involved the treatment is.
Even Dr. Pitcairn, in his book Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health For Dogs and Cats says he is reluctant to tell people to stop the use of heartworm preventives as he cannot guarantee the dogs won’t get heartworm. If you would like to read more on Dr. Pitcairn’s views, click here need link to order the book.
If for any reason you think your dog has heartworms, contact your vet immediately.
Harmony,
Janet Roper
