The Facts About Heartworms
HEARTWORMS . . . . . .
| . . are found throughout the United States and Canada. |
| . . occur in ALL breeds of dogs; both large and small, short-haired and long-haired, inside dogs and outside dogs. |
| . . are spread by mosquitos. After ingesting blood from an infected dog, the microfilaria ("baby" heartworms) are transmitted to other dogs when bitten by the mosquito. |
| . . develop to the adult stage 3 - 6 months after the dog is bitten by an infected mosquito. The adults live in the right side of the heart. |
| . . can be up to 14" long in the adult stage. Several HUNDRED can be present in the dog. |
| . . impair blood circulation, resulting in damage to the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. Serious damage can occur before outward signs are detected by the owner. |
HEARTWORMS CAN BE PREVENTED Yearly
testing and monthly preventive medication is available.
Medication should be given year-round. Prevention is the
most cost effective way to handle this deadly parasite. |