Pet News Alert:
Heartworms are on the rise this year! With unseasonably high
temperatures throughout most of the country this winter, the American Heartworm
Association and The Companion Animal Parasite Council indicate that heartworms
are at a near record risk this year.
According to a recent publication:
‘Through April 2012, the
forecast calls for the following levels of heartworm populations in five U.S.
regions: “extremely high” in the South; “high” in the Northeast and Midwest;
“moderate to higher-than-normal” in the Northwest; and “persistent spikes” in parts of the West.’
Veterinary Practice News
April
23, 2012
They cause pulmonary and coronary issues in both dogs and
cats and are one of the most preventable forms of death in pets. Last year’s mosquito bites could be this
year’s heartworm. Take action!
Have you had Fido or Fluffy tested this year? Have you and your vet discussed a preventative plan?
Have you had Fido or Fluffy tested this year? Have you and your vet discussed a preventative plan?
As shown in the graphic above, the
heartworm can reproduce rapidly in just a few months following a bite from an
infected mosquito. With dogs and cats of any age and breed being susceptible,
and tapeworms reaching up to 14 inches in length with a lifespan of 7 years in
dogs (2-3 in cats), it’s easy to see how dangerous these parasites are to pets:
they literally can fill the heart and that blockage can be fatal. It’s a case
where the best cure is actually prevention. Be sure to have your pet tested
annually and to use a reputable brand of heartworm prevention. It’s better to
be safe than sorry!
