by Ben J. Character, DVM
Heartworm disease is a common cause of sickness and death for our pets. Heartworms are a type of parasite that live in the heart and great vessels that are associated with the heart. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes that deposit the larvae when they feed. These larvae then migrate to the heart, and mature into adult worms. If there are at least two adult worms (one male and one female), new larvae will be produced called microfilaria.
For many years, the standard test for detection of heartworms was the Knott’s test. This test examined the blood for evidence of microfilaria. Although a very specific test, it was possible to have false negative results, especially if a pet had been on preventative medicine. Fortunately, advances in testing have provided new tests that can be run to detect the actual adult worms.
There is also good news for the treatment of heartworm infections: Although heart changes caused by the worms may never be repaired, adult heartworms can be eradicated. The old treatment for heartworms was an arsenic-based product. It was somewhat toxic, and had a high rate of complications. We now have new compounds to kill the adult worms that are much less toxic, and have minimal complications. Each case will vary according to the amount of damage already done.
The best news of all is that heartworm disease can be prevented from ever occurring. There are several products that will prevent heartworm disease if started before 5-6 months of age, or after the adult has been tested negative. These heartworm prevention methods should be given year-round.
If you have any questions about heartworms, would like to begin heartworm prevention, or think your dog might be suffering from heartworms go here to contact us or set up an appointment.