What Are Heartworms?
Our clients often ask "What are heartworms?" and "Should I be concerned about them even if I don’t live in a high-risk area?"
Here is a simplified answer: Heartworms are nematodes, or microscopic worms that infect many animal species. The larvae are transmitted through mosquito bites, maturing into worms once they arrive at the heart and blood vessels of the lungs. They can grow to as much as 11 inches in length, and can cause pulmonary disease, secondary heart problems and eventually death. Everyone with a dog or cat should be concerned about heartworm; mosquitoes are everywhere, and heartworms have been diagnosed in all 50 states.
Yearly Heartworm Tests and a monthly preventative can help keep your dog out of the heartworm risk category
For more information on this topic or if you have other concerns regarding your pet, contact us at 236-2311, at http://www.camdenvet.com/ and LIKE us on Facebook for tips, photos and contests.