Heartworm

Protect Your Beloved Pet from Heartworm Disease: A Preventive Imperative

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition prevalent in mainland states of Australia. While dogs are more susceptible to heartworm infestation than cats, the disease can be more severe in dogs. Adult heartworms can grow to over 30 cm in length and reside within the heart and major blood vessels. Microfilariae, the larvae of heartworms, can also be found circulating in the bloodstream of an infected dog.

How is heartworm spread among dogs?

Heartworms are transmitted from one dog to another through mosquitoes. When a mosquito bites an infected dog, it picks up the microscopic microfilariae. These microfilariae then mature inside the mosquito and are transmitted to another dog when the infected mosquito bites again. The larvae migrate through the dog's tissues and circulatory system, ultimately reaching the heart and lungs, where they mature into adult heartworms.

Why is heartworm disease dangerous?

In the early stages of infestation, heartworm may not exhibit any clinical signs. However, as the worms grow and mature, they can disrupt the normal circulation of blood, leading to symptoms of heart failure. In severe cases, heartworm disease can even result in sudden death.