Did you know that this month is National Heartworm Awareness Month? Temperatures are on the rise, and mosquito season is just around the corner, making now the ideal opportunity to learn about how you can safeguard your precious pet. Here at Stoneridge Animal Hospital, our compassionate veterinarians provide effective heartworm preventatives in Oklahoma City and are here to help you give your dog a healthy, happy life. Keep scrolling to discover more about heartworm and how to prevent it.  

What Is Heartworm?

Heartworm disease is caused by heartworms transmitted via bites from infected mosquitos. The heartworms reach up to a foot in length and live in the heart, blood vessels, and lungs, causing severe organ damage. When the disease is left untreated, the worms grow and breed continually, leading to further complications. Poor overall health and premature death are common in dogs with heartworm. 

Heartworm disease various symptoms, including:

• Persistent cough
• Fatigue, especially after exercise
• Weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Swollen abdomen
• Light-colored gums
• Labored breathing or shortness of breath

Protecting Your Dog from Heartworm

Heartworm is very difficult to treat. And even when treated, the damage it leaves behind {is usually permanent}. As a result, heartworm prevention is so important for dogs. Heartworm prevention medications are available in several forms, such as chewable pills, topicals, and injectable medications.

The American Heartworm Society suggests keeping your canine companion on an effective heartworm preventative medication throughout the entire year.  Dogs — even those on heartworm medication — also need annual testing for this parasite. While heartworm preventatives are extremely effective, it’s still possible for a dog to contract heartworm disease. Yearly testing allows veterinarians to begin appropriate treatment right away if heartworms are detected.

Call Now for Heartworm Prevention in Oklahoma City

If your fur baby needs effective heartworm prevention in Oklahoma City, let us lend a paw. Our skilled vets will help you decide which medication is most suitable for your beloved pet and perform heartworm testing to help your four-legged best friend live a long, healthy, and happy life free from these parasites. Call to schedule your dog's appointment today.