Actions To Take For Heartworm Symptoms In Dogs

Heartworms are a prevalent parasite in the United States. This parasite is passed onto a dog by a mosquito bite which injects heartworm larvae into the bloodstream of the dog. Getting treatment before heartworm symptoms in dogs begin to appear is the best course of action in fighting the parasite that can make a dog very ill or kill it.

There are many steps we take on a yearly basis to assure that our dogs remain healthy. Many people take their pets in for an annual check-up which includes getting any vaccinations that are due, having the teeth cleaned, and other tasks that a veterinarian must perform.

The types of medications that are available to figure heartworm infestation vary. Some of the medications can be given as an injection and are needed only once a year. Other treatments require regular application of creams or ointments. In some cases dogs are given pills to take that will kill that heartworm larvae and protect the animal from infestation.

Mosquitoes exist and multiply in any area that has standing water or new construction. There are many cases where mosquitoes will inhabit an area near a pool in a home’s yard. It is very hard to protect a pet from playing in a field or yard where there may be standing water and this water can be a breeding ground for infected mosquitoes.

An infestation is fully manifested by the type heartworm symptoms in dogs become visible. Heartworms can live in the bloodstream of a dog, attacking organs throughout the body, for several years with no visible symptoms. By the time the symptoms do begin to appear the dog is ill and needs to see a vet immediately.

When the heartworms begin to clog the heart of a dog it will often begin to have severe coughing spells. In most cases the coughing will lead to a gasping for air and the dog may lose consciousness.

With the infestation in the lungs the ability for a dog to produce oxygen that they need is greatly reduced. This causes many dogs to have shortness of breathe and sound very raspy when they breathe.

Because adequate blood cannot flow to the brain the dog will also often lose consciousness and appear very lethargic. They will act very tired and usually will stop eating when they have reached this stage of the illness. They will not be able to walk for any distance and climbing stairs or jumping will be too difficult for them to accomplish without assistance.

When any of these symptoms appear it is important that the dog be taken to the vet immediately. Once the heartworm symptoms in dogs have developed to this extent the treatment is expensive and involves x-rays, work-ups and injections. In addition the dog must be kept quiet during treatment and for several months after to insure that treatment has been successful.

Looking to find the best deal on Heartworm Symptoms In Dogs, then visit www.yoursite.com to find the best advice on Heartworm Prevention For Dogs for you.