What are HEARTWORMS?

Heartworms are a parasite that inhabit dog's hearts.  

They are contracted by mosquitos which are the parasites vector spreading the parasite from dog to dog. Vector borne disease require spread via a blood feeding arthropod. Heartworms have larval stages that go through different areas of the body, and ultimately the adult worms live inside dogs hearts!   

Heartworms can lead to many secondary pathologies for example:  pulmonary thromboembolism, caval syndrome, and congestive heart failure. The wonderful thing is there are many options in preventing this infestation! The process of treating heartworms once the dog contracts them is multifaceted.

PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

Heartworm prevention pills can be purchased at TCAP for a low cost once a heartworm test is performed. If the heartworm test is negative, then your dog will receive 6 months-1 year of heart worm prevention pills to be taken monthly. Heartworm tests should be administered yearly to receive your next round of medication. If the heartworm test is positive, the technicians will discuss with you methods of treatment for your dog.