At Pearland Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to keeping your pets happy and healthy. One of the most dangerous yet preventable threats to your furry companion is heartworm disease. Understanding how heartworms affect your pet, the importance of prevention, and available treatment options can help ensure your pet’s long-term well-being.

What Are Heartworms?

Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. When an infected mosquito bites your pet, it deposits microscopic larvae into the bloodstream. Over time, these larvae mature into foot-long worms that reside in the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels, causing severe damage and potentially leading to heart failure.

Signs and Symptoms of Heartworm Disease

In the early stages, pets infected with heartworms may show no visible symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may notice:

  • Persistent coughing

  • Fatigue after mild exercise

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Weight loss

  • Decreased appetite

In severe cases, heartworm disease can be fatal. Early detection and prevention are crucial in protecting your pet’s health.

Prevention Is Key

The good news is that heartworm disease is entirely preventable! Year-round heartworm prevention is essential, even if your pet spends most of their time indoors. Mosquitoes can enter homes, and it only takes one bite to infect your pet.

At Pearland Animal Hospital, we offer a variety of safe and effective heartworm preventatives, including:

  • Monthly chewable tablets

  • Topical treatments

  • Injectable preventatives that last up to 12 months

Regular veterinary checkups and annual heartworm testing ensure that your pet remains heartworm-free. Prevention is not only safer but also far more affordable than treatment.

Treatment for Heartworm Disease

If your pet tests positive for heartworms, don’t panic—treatment options are available. However, treatment is costly, requires strict activity restrictions, and can be hard on your pet’s body. The process involves a series of injections to kill adult heartworms, followed by a period of rest and recovery. Because of these challenges, prevention is always the best approach.

Schedule Your Pet’s Heartworm Prevention Today!

Protecting your pet from heartworms is one of the easiest ways to ensure a long and healthy life. Contact Pearland Animal Hospital today to discuss heartworm prevention options, schedule a heartworm test, or refill your pet’s medication. Your pet’s health is our top priority!

Call us today to make an appointment and keep your pet safe from heartworms all year long.