Heartworm (D.immitus) is a parasite affecting small animals such as dogs and cats.
Its intermediate host is the common mosquito which transmits the larval stage of the worm to the host species.
The larvae then travel to the large vessels of the heart where they become adults.
Heartworm infection CAN BE FATAL as the worms multiply and obstruct the chambers and vessels of the heart, potentially leading to congestive heart failure.
So what do we do?
As with most things, prevention is the best medicine.
If heartworm status is unknown, in-house testing can be performed to confirm the presence of heartworm antigen and microscopy to look for larval stages, prior to commencing heartworm prophylaxis.
There are a number of products to prevent the heartworm cycle from monthly tablets to a once-yearly injection. Ask us today for our suggestion on what heartworm product is best for your pet.