Heartworm Prevention: Why It’s a Must for Your Pets
As devoted members of the Levan Road Veterinary Hospital family in Livonia, MI, we know you’re always on the lookout for ways to keep your fur babies healthy and happy. One topic that can’t be emphasized enough is heartworm prevention. Trust us, when it comes to your pet’s health, this is one area where you absolutely don’t want to cut corners.
What Are Heartworms and How Do They Spread?
The Lifecycle of a Heartworm
Heartworms start off as tiny little larvae that are transmitted by mosquitoes. Yep, you read that right—those pesky mosquitoes are not just annoying but can be harmful to your pets. Once a mosquito bites an infected animal, it can carry the larvae and pass them on to your pet through a bite.
Risk Factors for Heartworms
While we’re lucky to experience all four seasons in Livonia, the warm months pose an especially high risk for heartworm infection. But don’t let the winter months fool you; mosquitoes can still be a risk indoors or during unseasonably warm days.
Common Symptoms of Heartworm Disease
If you think heartworms are no big deal, think again. This parasite can wreak havoc on your pet’s heart and lungs. Symptoms often include coughing, lethargy, and decreased appetite. By the time these symptoms appear, the disease may be well advanced.
Why Heartworm Prevention Is Absolutely Necessary
The Severity of Untreated Heartworm Disease
Left untreated, heartworm disease can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and even death. Yes, it’s that serious. The treatment for heartworm disease is also much more expensive and complicated than preventative measures.
The Costs of Neglect vs. Prevention
Let’s talk dollars and cents for a minute. Treatment for heartworm disease can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the severity, whereas preventative medicine is only a fraction of that cost.
How Levan Road Veterinary Hospital Can Help
We offer a range of preventative options tailored to your pet’s needs. From monthly pills to yearly injections, we’ll help you find the right fit for your pet.
When you bring in your pet for heartworm prevention, we’ll run a quick blood test to ensure they’re heartworm-free. Then, based on their lifestyle and your preferences, we’ll recommend the best prevention method for you and your pet.
We strongly recommend making an appointment with us for heartworm prevention, whether you’re a new pet owner or have had fur babies for years. We hope this information has been helpful in understanding the urgency of heartworm prevention for your pets. Got questions or need to schedule an appointment? Just give us a call at (734) 464-6281. Our team at Levan Road Veterinary Hospital is always here to help.