WHEREVER THERE ARE MOSQUITOES…..
Canine Heartworm
How does my dog get heartworm?
Mosquitos are the carrier of heartworm from dog to dog. Your dog only needs to be bitten by a carrier mosquito to get infected with heartworm.
What dogs are at risk?
All dogs, whether living indoors or outdoors, are at risk of developing heartworm.
Key factors that contribute to heartworm infection are:
- A reservoir of heartworm infected dogs
- Mosquitoes
- Temperature above 14 C
Can heartworm be treated?
Heartworm is treatable. However severe infections may cause permanent damage to the dog’s heart and lungs.
What are the signs of heartworm infection?
Dogs do not show immediate signs of heartworm infection. This will depend on the severity of the infection, and on the health and size of your dog. Common signs include:
- Coughing
- Lack of energy
- Reluctance to exercise
- Weight loss
How common is heartworm?
Heartworm infection occurs in all parts of the Australian mainland. It is most commonly found in the northern states with increasing infections being seen in the southern states. Higher levels of infection are seen within regions where mosquitoes are more prevalent eg. South Sydney.
How can I tell if my dog has heartworm?
The veterinarian will look at your dog’s medical history and then its clinical signs before deciding whether to conduct a heartworm antigen test. The vet takes a small sample of blood to use in the test and you will get a result during the course of the consultation.
How can I prevent my dog from getting heartworm?
Heartworm preventatives are available from your veterinarian. They are available in daily, monthly and yearly forms. If given correctly, your dog will not contract heartworm. If you also own a cat, it may be appropriate to test it for heartworm as cats can also contract heartworm infection and disease. Ask your veterinarian about the risks in your area and about prevention.
Heartworm Disease Lifecycle
Infected mosquito bites healthy dog
- Larvae develop in dog and enter blood stream (approx 120 days)
- Immature worms migrate to pulmonary arteries and heart
- Heartworm disease develops as adult worms cause heart and lung damage. Worms mature to adult
- DOG (HOST) Dog with larvae and heartworm
- MOQUITO (VECTOR) Mosquito bites infected dog and injests larvae
- Larvae develop in mosquito
What is canine heartworm?
Canine heartworm is a parasitic worm that lives in the pulmonary (lung) arteries of the infected dog. Heartworm can cause heart and lung disease, and death if left untreated.
Ask your Vet
Your veterinarian can test for heartworm infection. This test will provide an accurate and quick answer to your dog’s heartworm status.
