Heartworm Prevention
Protecting Dogs and Cats from Heartworm Disease
Heartworm disease in pets is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Once inside the body, heartworm larvae travel through the bloodstream and mature in the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels, leading to progressive and often severe damage over time.
Symptoms of Heartworm Disease in Dogs
In dogs, heartworm infection may not show noticeable signs in the early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:
- Persistent coughing
- Fatigue or reduced energy levels
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty breathing
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen
These symptoms often indicate damage to the heart and lungs. While treatment for heartworm disease in dogs is available, it can be costly, requires a long recovery period, and carries certain health risks—making prevention the safest and most effective option.
Heartworm Risk in Cats
Although less common, heartworm disease in cats can still occur and may cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing. Diagnosis in cats is often more challenging, and currently, there is no approved treatment. This makes heartworm prevention for cats especially important to protect their health.
Safe & Effective Heartworm Prevention
Preventing heartworm disease is simple and highly effective with the right care. We offer a variety of veterinarian-approved heartworm preventives designed to provide reliable protection. Many of these options also help protect against additional parasites, including:
- Roundworms
- Hookworms
- Fleas
- Ticks
For dogs, we proudly offer ProHeart, an injectable heartworm preventive that provides 12 months of continuous protection with a single dose. Administered in our clinic during your pet’s visit, it works similarly to a vaccine—offering a convenient and long-lasting solution for year-round protection.
Long-Term Protection & Prevention
Choosing the right heartworm prevention plan for pets depends on your pet’s lifestyle, risk factors, and overall health. Our team will guide you in selecting the most appropriate option to ensure consistent protection.
Regular prevention is the most reliable way to safeguard your pet from this dangerous disease. Contact us today to learn more about heartworm prevention for dogs and cats and keep your pet protected year-round.