{"id":76,"date":"2024-04-04T16:26:25","date_gmt":"2024-04-04T20:26:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.allcrittersvet.com\/blog\/?p=76"},"modified":"2024-04-04T16:26:26","modified_gmt":"2024-04-04T20:26:26","slug":"the-heart-of-the-matter-understanding-the-importance-of-pet-heartworm-prevention","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.allcrittersvet.com\/blog\/the-heart-of-the-matter-understanding-the-importance-of-pet-heartworm-prevention\/","title":{"rendered":"The Heart of the Matter: Understanding the Importance of Pet Heartworm Prevention"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Heartworm disease is a serious illness that can damage the lungs and hearts of affected animals. Left untreated, heartworm disease can become fatal, because the spaghetti-shaped worms will grow and multiply, and eventually block blood flow to the animal\u2019s heart. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The good news is that heartworm disease is preventable. Read on for more information from our experts<\/a> at All Critters Veterinary Hospital<\/a> about heartworm disease and the importance of year-round prevention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Do Pets Get Heartworms?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Mosquitoes carry heartworms in a microscopic form called microfilaria. When these infected mosquitoes bite a dog or cat, the tiny microfilaria enter the bitten animal\u2019s bloodstream. In about 6 to 7 months, the heartworm larvae grow into adult heartworms and are able to reproduce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dogs are the most common heartworm<\/a> hosts, but they are also found in cats. Heartworms can survive for 5 to 7 years inside a dog, and dogs can go for years without showing symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Once symptoms arise, they can progress rapidly, so contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following signs of heartworm infection: <\/p>\n\n\n\n