Heartworm Disease

Once considered a parasite of southern climates, the heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is now recognized as a major, global pest affecting dogs, cats, and some wildlife. From its discovery in dogs more than a century ago and the documentation in cats in the 1920s, researchers have devised diagnostic tests, preventives and treatments, but the disease has spread to all 50 states.

Heartworm infestation is dangerous; untreated dogs will die and treated dogs go through weeks of discomfort while the worms are killed and expelled from their bodies.  Cats will also die from infection, although they often have different clinical signs from dogs and are much more difficult to diagnose.

Heartworm prevention is simple. In dogs, a blood sample is taken to determine whether the parasite is present, and for both dogs and cats it involves regular dosing with preventive medication.

Some of our veterinary recommended products for you:

Sentinel: Sentinel is an oral medication that prevents heartworm disease by killing heartworm larvae before they mature to stages that cause disease.  Give by mouth with food once monthly on the same day every month. Sentinel also prevents flea infestation, and is made for use in dogs

Revolution: Revolution is a topical medication that is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin, where it’s active ingredient selamectin prevents heartworm by attacking the larval stages.  Apply every month to the back of the head. Don’t bathe your animal for two days prior to, or after, applying. Revolution also prevents flea infestation, and roundworm and hookworm infection in cats.