How Do You Know If Your Dog Has Heartworms
Heartworms are a condition caused by the parasitic roundworm Dirofilaria immitis. The mature female worms live in the right side of your dog’s heart and pulmonary artery. Heartworms can lead to serious illnesses if left untreated, including congestive heart failure, fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema), death, and even sudden death without warning signs. Fortunately, it’s rare for dogs with heartworms to show any symptoms until they’re well-established in their adult stage; however, there are some common manifestations that may indicate your dog has this dangerous parasite—and you should act fast if you think yours does!
1. Your Dog is Lethargic and Begins to Lose Weight
If you notice that your dog is lethargic and losing weight, this could be a sign that he or she has heartworms. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so if your dog spends time outside and has become lethargic recently, it’s possible that he or she has been bitten by a mosquito carrying the larvae of heartworms.
If you suspect that your dog might have been infected with heartworms, contact a veterinarian immediately to discuss treatment options. Heartworm medication may be administered as an injection under the skin every month for three months and then every six months thereafter.
2. Dry Cough and Difficulty Breathing
- Dry Cough and Difficulty Breathing
Heartworms can also be found in dogs’ lungs, causing them to cough. This is because heartworms irritate the lungs and make it difficult for your dog to breathe.
3. Collapse or Fainting
If your dog becomes weak and collapses, this is a sign that heartworm disease may be present.
Fainting is usually caused by the inability of the blood to get enough oxygen to the brain, which can be caused by heartworm disease. The best way to prevent this illness is to use medications on your dog monthly throughout the year.
4. Increase in Respiratory Rate
An increase in respiratory rate is a sign that the dog may have heartworms. Heartworms can cause the lungs to become congested, which leads to coughing and wheezing. The dog may also breathe faster than normal, which could indicate that they’re not getting enough oxygen.
The first thing you can do if you suspect your dog has heartworms is see a vet for diagnosis and treatment options.
If you suspect your dog has heartworms, the first thing you should do is see a vet for diagnosis and treatment options. If your vet says that it looks like your dog does have heartworms, he or she will recommend that you get treatment for your pet. If the vet says your dog is negative for heartworms, but you still think something is wrong with him or her, schedule an appointment with another veterinarian in order to discuss what could be causing the symptoms.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s imperative that you take your dog to the vet immediately. Heartworm disease can be very serious and life threatening if not caught early enough. Treatment is not only necessary but also very effective when administered by a professional who has experience treating this condition. The sooner you get treatment started, the better off your dog will be in the long run.
