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Heartworm pills
I have always given my dog the once-a-month heartworm preventative pill. Is that ok? Should I keep doing it or what else do you recommend?
Answer:
Heartworm disease is a parasitic infection that is transmitted by mosquitoes and is potentially fatal. This parasitic worm is called Dirofilaria immitis. These worms travel throughout the dog’s body until maturity when they take up residence in your dog’s heart.
Heartworm disease has been found in all 50 states in the United States. Even if you don’t live in a location with lots of mosquitoes and even if you don’t take your pet outside often, people and their pets travel from place to place and unknowingly take along parasites.
Although this disease can be fatal and treatment does involve risk, heartworm disease is usually curable. However, it can be easily prevented with once-a-month tablets. And the cost of prevention is considerably less than the cost of treatment.
Many vets now recommend giving heartworm medication year round. Annual re-testing of dogs on heartworm preventive is typically advised.
Consult your vet for the best prevention for your location and your dog.
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