Heartworms in an infected heart
Can you recall the days of heartworm disease just entering into the Omaha area. Those were the days of once a day prevention tablets and annual blood draws only in the spring. Today, the American Heartworm society recommends annual testing and monthly prevention. The test is a blood draw that can be done right in the clinic or sent to an outside lab if getting other diagnostic blood tests done.
According to CAPC Vet in 2015, 45% of all heartworm positive cases in the state of Nebraska were in Douglas County.
More about heartworm disease
Heartworm microfilaria are carried and transmitted by mosquitos to cats and dogs. The more mosquitos in the community the higher the risk of heartworm disease.
The signs of heartworm disease in dogs include: no signs at all, mild, persistent cough; reluctance to more or exercise and fatigue.
The signs of heartworm disease in cats include: vomiting, gagging, difficulty breathing, and listlessness.
Heartworm disease can be prevented easily, safely and inexpensively by giving prescribed medication every 30 days as determined by your veterinarian.
For further information regarding heartworms, testing or prevention please visit click here.
