Heartworm Prevention

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms (Dirofilaria immitis) that live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of affected pets. The disease is spread exclusively through the bite of an infected mosquito. Heartworm prevention involves giving pets a prescribed medication on a regular schedule, typically monthly or sometimes as an injectable lasting several months, to kill heartworm larvae before they can mature into adult worms. This preventive treatment is crucial because once adult heartworms establish themselves, treatment is complex, expensive, and carries significant risks, especially for dogs. For cats, treatment options are limited, making prevention even more vital. Annual heartworm testing is generally recommended, even for pets on preventive medication, to ensure they have not become infected and to detect any breakthroughs early. Consistent, year-round prevention is key, regardless of climate, as mosquitoes can be present in many regions throughout the year.