Heartworm is a parasite of dogs and cats that is transmitted by mosquitoes. Through various stages, the immature form of the parasite develops into an adult worm that migrates to the heart. This disease is fatal if left untreated as the adult worms can cause permanent heart damage to the host.




FAQ:
1. How do I know if my dog has heartworm disease?
Through a simple blood test that will screen for the immature form of the parasite in the bloodstream. More advanced stages of the disease will reveal radiographic changes within the heart and lungs.

2. How do I protect my dog from heartworm disease?
We recommend a monthly heartworm prevention (Interceptor) that is given year-round. Although it is a highly effective medication, it is not 100%, and the manufacturers of Interceptor recommend that all dogs on monthly heartworm prevention be tested yearly. Dogs that have received the medication as prescribed and still test positive for the disease are eligible for reimbursement from the manufacturer for costs associated with diagnosis and treatment.

Interceptor is also highly effective against most intestinal parasites, which are a common threat to dogs year-round and can be transmitted to people.

3. Why do we recommend year-round heartworm preventative in Colorado?
Although mosquitoes are not present during the winter months in our area, we recommend year-round dosing primarily to protect against intestinal parasites and also to ensure that there is no lapse in giving the medication. Many of us travel with our pets to warmer climates during the winter, which also makes them susceptible to contracting heartworm. We have seen a dramatic increase in heartworm disease in Colorado in the last decade, most likely due to animals moving to the area that have contracted the disease in a warmer climate or heartworm endemic areas.

4. What is the treatment for heartworm disease?
Treatment for heartworm disease consists of a series of injectable medications given while the patient is hospitalized. The medication can be potentially harmful depending on the stage of disease at diagnosis.

5. Do cats get heartworm disease?
Cats are occasional hosts for heartworm, especially those that are outdoors. We do not currently recommend heartworm preventative for cats, but will follow the American Heartworm Society's recommendations for future changes in the guidelines.

For more information about heartworm disease, click on the following: www.heartwormsociety.org