Preventing heartworm in your pooch

A common case that we have been seeing in clinic recently is positive canine heartworm patients. Contraction of heartworm commonly occurs through mosquitoes and remains a risk across Australia. Heartworm can cause serious complications such as heart failure, lung disease, organ damage and, in severe cases can be fatal if left untreated.  A study shows that at least 40% of dogs in Australia have recently tested positive to heartworm.

Symptoms of heartworm in dogs

• Persistent cough
• Reluctance to exercise
• Fatigue after moderate activity
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss

Heartworm in dogs can be detected through a simple blood test and physical examination by your vet with results back in just 10 minutes. Treatment of heartworm is a lengthy process and is expensive, this is why prevention is better than cure! Prevention for heartworm in dogs come in a range of options.

Come in and ask our friendly team today about the best option for your pooch!