Heartworm Disease: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know
- Chris
- Sep 17, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 10
April is Heartworm Disease Awareness Month, a crucial time to highlight the dangers of heartworm and the importance of prevention. While you might think of mosquitoes as just a summer nuisance, they can carry something far more dangerous than an itchy bite -heartworm disease. This life-threatening condition affects both dogs and cats, making year-round prevention essential. Let’s dive into why protecting your furry friends is so important.
What is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. Once inside your pet’s bloodstream, these worms travel to the heart and lungs, where they mature and start causing damage. In severe cases, heartworms can grow up to 30 cm long, leading to heart failure, lung disease, and even death if left untreated.
How Heartworm Spreads
Here’s how heartworm infection occurs:
Transmission: An infected mosquito bites your pet, injecting heartworm larvae into their bloodstream.
Development: These larvae mature over several months, eventually reaching your pet’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
Symptoms: Early signs of heartworm infection are often subtle and may include fatigue, coughing, weight loss, and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, the disease may already be advanced.
Why Prevention is Key
Prevention is far easier and safer than treating an existing infection. For dogs, heartworm treatment can be risky and expensive, often requiring months of medication, activity restrictions, and follow-up care. For cats, there’s no approved treatment for eliminating heartworms, making prevention their only line of defense.
Brisbane’s warm climate and high mosquito population mean that heartworm is a year-round risk. Even indoor pets aren’t safe, as mosquitoes can easily find their way inside.
How to Protect Your Pet
The good news is that heartworm is entirely preventable with regular treatments. Options include:
Monthly tablets or topical treatments
A yearly heartworm injection for long-term protection
The yearly heartworm injection is a great choice for pet owners who want the convenience of year-round protection without having to remember monthly doses. With a quick visit to the clinic, your pet is protected for 12 months.
💬 "I used to rely on monthly tablets for heartworm prevention, but I often forgot to give them on time. Since switching to the yearly injection, I have peace of mind knowing my pet is protected without the hassle."
Book Your Pet’s Heartworm Prevention Today
April is the perfect time to ensure your pet is protected. Pair the yearly heartworm injection with the Bravecto Quantum tick and flea injection for complete protection with just one visit.
💚 Ask Us About Our Vet Membership
Want to stay on top of your fur baby’s heartworm protection while saving on essential care?
Our Vet Membership makes it easier. Members receive:
✔️ Discounts on heartworm vaccines and chewables
✔️ A complimentary annual heartworm test
✔️ Plus access to exclusive perks and savings across vet visits, grooming, and more
It’s peace of mind for you—and protection for your pet. 🐾
