Eagle Animal Hospital
What You Need to Know
Heartworms and heartworm disease can have a serious impact on your pet's health. It’s important to understand the key facts in order to protect your furry friend. Heartworms are parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected animals, primarily dogs — though they also infect cats and ferrets. They’re transmitted through mosquito bites, and once infected, these worms grow and reproduce, causing internal damage.
Prevention is the best approach to keeping heartworms away from your pet, and several safe and effective heartworm preventatives are available. Regular testing and administration of preventative medication is crucial to protect your companion. One of our veterinarians can provide you with all the necessary information and guide you in creating a heartworm prevention plan tailored to your pet's needs.
What Happens if Heartworm Disease Is Left Untreated?
If heartworm disease is left untreated, it can have severe consequences for your pet's health. As the worms grow and continue to reproduce, they can damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels significantly. This might lead to symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and weight loss. In advanced stages of the disease, heart failure may occur. Additionally, untreated heartworm disease can lead to complications such as clotting disorders, organ damage, and impaired immune function. It’s important to seek prompt treatment in order to minimize the risks and ensure the best possible outcome for your pet's wellness.
Tips For Protecting Your Pet
Choose Quality Pet Food
Providing a balanced and nutritious diet can contribute to your pet's overall health and well-being. Look for pet foods that meet your pet's specific dietary needs and consult with your veterinarian for recommendations.
Schedule Regular Vet Check-Ups
Schedule routine check-ups with our pet hospital to ensure your pet receives necessary vaccinations, screenings, and preventative care. Regular examinations help detect any health issues early on and allow for proper treatment.
Seek Indoor and Outdoor Pest Control
Protect your pet from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other parasites by using appropriate preventatives. Keep your home and yard clean, and seek professional pest control as needed.
Keep Vaccinations Up-To-Date
Ensure your pet receives all necessary vaccinations to protect against common diseases. Follow our veterinarians’ recommended vaccination schedule to keep your pet protected.
ProHeart® Heartworm Prevention
Protecting your pet from heartworm disease is essential, and at Eagle Animal Hospital & Pet Resort, we believe ProHeart® heartworm prevention is the solution. That's why we proudly offer ProHeart® heartworm prevention, an annual shot that provides numerous benefits for your beloved companion.
With options for six-month or 12-month protection, ProHeart® makes it easy to keep your pet safe. There are no pills or chews to remember, as the preventative is administered as a single injection. Say goodbye to confusing doses and calendar tracking! We can administer the shot during your pet's annual wellness exam or twice a year, making heartworm prevention simple, convenient, and affordable. Trust ProHeart® for reliable and hassle-free heartworm prevention for your pet.
