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Heartworm Prevention Is Way Better Than The Cure

Written by Rebecca Foxton
Friday, 11 April 2008
Mosquitoes are known to transmit the parasite known as the heartworm among its hosts. Heartworms in canines are a kind of filaris (a long thin worm), and despite being best known for being found in dogs, heartworms can affect a wide variety of other animals, from cats and ferrets to sea lions and even people. The heartworm's name was derived from the fact that its reproductive cycle's last stage occurs within the heart of its host. by RebeccaFoxton Mosquitoes are known to transmit the parasite known as the heartworm among its hosts. Heartworms in canines are a kind of filaris (a long thin worm), and despite being best known for being found in dogs, heartworms can affect a wide variety of other animals, from cats and ferrets to sea lions and even people. The heartworm's name was derived from the fact that its reproductive cycle's last stage occurs within the heart of its host. Without treatment, the afflicted animal will have increasing difficulty exerting itself, perhaps losing its breath or even passing out when under duress. At the end, the animal can die as a result of heart failure or failure of the kidneys, lungs or liver, as the parasites can also cause damage to these vital organs. Treatment is lengthy and can take a year and a half to complete. This is usually comprised of several courses of highly potent anti-heartworm medications, including the use of a dangerous arsenic compound, to kill the parasites. In some cases, surgery may be necessary; each of these options may cause the animal great suffering. The animal may be totally asymptomatic for the greatest part of the infection. The life cycle of the dog heartworm is approximately 6 to 7 months from the first bite of the mosquito to the parasite moving to the heart. Upon adulthood, the females can measure 30cm in length and the males 23cm. After 7 months, mating will have occurred and the females will have started producing microfilariae. Although heart worms used to only affect warm southern climates, they now affect anywhere which is habitable for mosquitoes. Prevention measures for heartworms is typically a monthly Prophylactic, such as Heartgard which contains ivermectin - a broad spectrum anti parasite medication. The medicine Heart Guard for heartworm is not very expensive, quite easy to use, and effective as well. Other heartworm preventatives include milbemycin which can be found in Interceptor heartworm treatment and moxidectin which is the effective ingredient in ProHeart. The most popular of these is Heartgard Plus. It is also possible to treat for Heartworm and other parasites with the use of a topical application such as Revolution, which not only controls heartworms, but also a effective in flea and parasite control. Thankfully, heartworm protection is very effective, so there is no need for your pet to be negatively affected. You can consult with your vet and get them to check your pet. A blood test is the most common diagnostic tool, and medications can prevent and cure the infection if one is discovered. X-rays may be necessary for the vet to see the full extent of infection, should your animal test positive for heartworms. Remember, especially in the case of heartworm infections, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Bring up canine heart worm at your dog's next routine check up and get the information you need. It will be cheaper and much better for your pet not to risk their health by short term economy. About the Author: About the author: Rebecca Foxton wants to help you bring your pet better health with Heartgard Plus. Check out her nutrition tips for pet owners, and visit her FortiFlora articles on Dog Buffs.

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