Heartworm Prevention Is Much Better Than The Cure
Heartworm is a particularly dangerous parasite that is spread from host to host via mosquitoes. A long thin worm known as filaris is commonly known to be found in dogs; many don't realize that they can also infect other animals such as sea lions, wolves, coyotes, ferrets, cats and shockingly, humans as well. The worm was named after its habit in the last stage of its reproductive cycle of taking up residence in heart of its host.
If left untreated, the animal will find exertion harder and may faint under physical strain or experience extreme breathlessness. Eventually the animal can die of heart failure or failure of the kidneys, lungs and liver as the parasites also damage these organs.
Heartworm is treatable, but it can take 18 months or longer. Moreover, it is not pleasant on the animal, as in many cases killing the parasites involves the use of medicines containing arsenic compounds or other strong heart worm drugs. Treatment might even involve surgery.
A dog heartworm may take 6 to 7 months to move from introduction to the animal's system via mosquito bite, to its eventual landing in the heart. Fully matured female heart worms may reach a length of 30 centimeters, and males 23 centimeters. Mating occurs after seven months and microfilariae is produced by the females. The spread of mosquito breeding grounds from strictly warm southern climates has lead to an increase in heart worm proliferation.
Obviously, prevention of heartworms is far simpler and more effective than treatment after infection. Heartgard, a monthly prophylactic medication, contains ivermectin, a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic. Heartgard is popular for its ease of use, its relative inexpensiveness, and its effectiveness.
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.
To get the information you need, ask about the canine heart worm at your dog's next routine check up. Don't risk your pet's health by trying to save money, as it will be more expensive in the long run if they do become infected. Plus your pet will be healthier if you prevent the heart worms in the first place.
Article Source: http://www.search-raven.com
About the Author
Author Rebecca Foxton can help you give your pet better health with Heartgard Plus. Check out her nutrition tips for pet owners, and read her FortiFlora article series on Dog Buffs.
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by: RebeccaFoxton
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