Mosquitoes Suck… But Heartworms Are Worse!
What are Heartworms?
Heartworms are dangerous parasites that can live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of animals. They are spread through mosquito bites, putting every pet at risk, even those that stay indoors. When an infected mosquito bites a pet, it transmits microscopic heartworm larvae that grow into foot-long worms, causing life-threatening damage to the heart and lungs.
How Do Heartworms Affect Pets?
Heartworm disease is often called a "silent killer" because symptoms may not appear until the damage is severe. When signs do show, they can include:
✅ Persistent coughing
✅ Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
✅ Difficulty breathing
✅ Weight loss
✅ Swollen abdomen (fluid buildup from heart failure)
Diagnosing Heartworm Disease
Early detection is crucial. Our veterinarians use blood tests to detect heartworm infections, and in some cases, X-rays or ultrasounds may be needed. Even if your pet seems healthy, annual heartworm testing is essential to catch infections early.
What Happens if My Pet Tests Positive?
If your pet is diagnosed with heartworm disease, don’t panic! Treatment is available but can be costly, lengthy, and stressful for your pet. The most common treatment involves a series of injections to kill adult worms, along with medications to prevent complications. Severe cases may require hospitalization or surgery.
This is why prevention is so important!
The Best Heartworm Prevention Options
Preventing heartworms is much easier (and cheaper) than treating them. At Stonebrook Family Pet Clinic, we recommend these vet-approved options:
🐶 For Dogs:
💊 Simparica Trio – A once-a-month chew that protects against heartworms, fleas, ticks, roundworms, and hookworms—all in one tasty tablet! Perfect for pet parents who want all-in-one parasite protection.
💉 ProHeart Injectable – A convenient 6-month injection that prevents heartworms without the need for monthly dosing. Great for busy pet parents who want long-term protection.
🐱 For Cats:
🐾 Revolution Plus – A monthly topical treatment that protects against heartworms, fleas, ticks, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. Since cats are highly susceptible to heartworm disease and there is no treatment for them, prevention is absolutely essential!
Loyalty Membership: Save 10% on Heartworm Prevention!
Want to keep your pet safe while saving money? Our Loyalty Membership gives members 10% off heartworm prevention, including Simparica Trio and ProHeart!
💰 Join today and start saving on the best care for your pet!
Final Thoughts: Prevention is the Best Medicine
Heartworm disease is 100% preventable, yet it remains a leading cause of serious illness in pets. Protecting your pet with consistent prevention ensures they stay happy, healthy, and heartworm-free.
Call us today to discuss the best prevention option for your pet! 🐾❤️
📩 Email: SFPC@StonebrookFamilyPet.com
🌐 Website: www.stonebrookfamilypet.com
📲 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @StonebrookFamily