Heartworm

"Can my dog get heartworm disease?"

Yes. Your dog can get heartworm disease, whether he's an "outside" dog or even if he stays inside most of the time. Dogs get heartworm disease from mosquitoes. It is the female mosquito that bites and transmits the infection. Female mosquitoes are very tiny and can easily slip through cracks around windows, doors or screens. Every dog can be at risk, indoors or out.

"Are some dogs more susceptible than others?"

Unfortunately, no dog, or breed of dog, is immune to heartworm disease. The mosquito that bites your dog could be carrying this common and deadly parasite. One bite from an infected mosquito is all it takes for your dog to become infected.

"How can I know for sure if my dog already has heartworm?"

The only way to know for sure is to have your pet examined. The procedure is quick and easy. Don't delay in calling us to arrange for a heartworm test. If your dog gets heartworm disease, treatment can be dangerous for him and expensive for you.

"When is the right time to get my dog tested?"

Mosquitoes, the carriers of heartworm disease, can be found at varying times of the year depending on the climate. Ask us when the best time is to have your dog tested.

"How can I prevent my dog from getting heartworm disease in the future?"

If we determine that your dog is free of heartworms, we will tell you how easy and convenient prevention can be. It's important to follow our instructions; if you don't, your dog could still be at risk. Remember, the first, most important step is to have your dog tested for heartworms.