At Greystone Animal Hospital in Burnaby, BC, we prioritize your pet’s health and well-being. One of the most critical aspects of maintaining your pet’s health is ensuring they are protected against heartworm. Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that affects dogs, cats, and other pets. As a responsible pet owner, understanding and implementing heartworm prevention is essential.
Understanding Heartworm Disease
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Once inside the host, the larvae mature into adult worms, residing in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels. This can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs.
Symptoms of Heartworm Disease
In the early stages, heartworm disease may not show any symptoms. As the disease progresses, pets may exhibit signs such as:
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue after moderate activity
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Swollen abdomen due to fluid accumulation
Early detection through regular veterinary check-ups is crucial to manage and treat this disease effectively.
Heartworm Prevention Strategies
Preventing heartworm disease is far easier and safer than treating it. Greystone Animal Hospital offers several preventive measures to protect your pets from heartworms:
1. Monthly Preventive Medications: These medications are administered orally or topically and are highly effective in preventing heartworm infection. Your veterinarian can recommend the best product for your pet.
2. Annual Heartworm Testing: Regular testing ensures that if your pet is infected, the condition can be treated promptly before severe symptoms develop. Even pets on preventive medication should be tested annually to ensure the prevention program is working effectively.
3. Environmental Management: Reducing your pet’s exposure to mosquitoes can also help prevent heartworm infection. Use pet-safe insect repellents and keep your pet indoors during peak mosquito activity times.
The Role of Your Veterinarian in Heartworm Prevention
A veterinarian near you plays a crucial role in the prevention and management of heartworm disease. At Greystone Animal Hospital in Burnaby, BC, our veterinarians are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to keep your pets healthy and safe from heartworms. During routine exams, our veterinarians will discuss your pet’s risk of heartworm disease and recommend appropriate preventive measures.
Why Choose Greystone Animal Hospital?
Choosing the right animal hospital for your pet’s care is essential. At Greystone Animal Hospital, we offer a wide range of veterinary services, including heartworm prevention, to ensure your pets receive the best possible care. Our team of experienced veterinarians and staff are committed to providing compassionate and professional care tailored to your pet’s needs.
Regular Veterinary Visits for Comprehensive Care
Protect your pets from the dangers of heartworm disease by scheduling an appointment with Greystone Animal Hospital in Burnaby, BC. Our dedicated team is here to provide expert advice and effective preventive care to keep your pets healthy. Call us today at (604) 559-4488 to learn more about our services and to book your pet’s next exam.
