Parasites are one of the most challenging health risks our dogs face. Some stay on their fur, while others penetrate and enter, threatening the heart itself.
Heartworms are dangerous parasites that can cause severe damage to essential organs. They are also known as Dirofilaria immitis, a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites. These worms live in a dog’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels, causing serious health issues.
In this blog, we’re going to talk all about heartworms in dogs, including the signs and how they’re transmitted, diagnosed, treated, and prevented.
How Does a Dog Get Heartworm?
Heartworms spread through mosquito bites. These bites transmit larvae into the dog’s bloodstream, essentially making their way toward the heart, lungs, and other vital organs.
These microscopic larvae will mature in six to seven months, growing up to 12 inches long. Once matured, they start disrupting normal blood flow and affecting an organ’s functionality. While staying here, they can leave for up to seven years.
Here’s a closer look at the life cycle of heartworms:
Transmission | A mosquito picks up microfilariae from an infected dog during a bite. |
|---|---|
Development | The microfilariae mature into larvae for about 10 to 14 days. |
Infection | The larvae are transmitted to another dog and enter the bloodstream through mosquito bites. |
Maturity | The heartworms continue to develop and mature into adults for around 6-7 months. They reside in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. |
Reproduction | New microfilariae are produced by the adult heartworms, ready for a mosquito to restart the entire cycle. |
What Dogs Are High Risk for Heartworm?
Heartworm disease affects dogs of all breeds and ages. However, dogs in warm, humid climates face a higher risk of heartworm disease due to the prevalence of mosquitoes in these areas.
Additionally, dogs that spend too much time outdoors, especially in the warmer months, are more susceptible to heartworm infection. Even then, mosquitoes can enter the home and infect indoor dogs.
How Long Can Dogs Live With Heartworms?
Dogs can live for years with heartworms, but their health and condition will progressively decline. However, active dogs tend to decline faster due to the strain physical activity puts on their already compromised cardiovascular systems.
What Are the Signs of Heartworms in Dogs?
The symptoms of heartworm disease in dogs become worse as the condition progresses, with caval syndrome being the most severe sign. Here are the signs you must know.
Early Signs
Mild, persistent cough. This is often the first noticeable sign, often from heart or lung problems. It may sound like a dry cough that doesn’t go away with time.
Fatigue. Affected dogs may get easily tired even after light physical exercise. This includes short walks and playtime.
Moderate Signs
Labored breathing. As the infection progresses, affected dogs may have difficulty breathing. This is because the heart and lungs are struggling.
Weight loss. Chronic heartworm infection can reduce a dog’s appetite and drain its resources, leading to weight loss.
Increased lethargy. Dogs may appear unusually tired and sluggish. This weakness is generally caused by poor heart function and circulation.
Severe Signs
Collapse. In severe cases, the worms can block and obstruct blood flow to the heart, resulting in collapse.
Pale gums. Pale gums indicate poor blood circulation or anemia, which is a concern.
Coughing up blood. Blood during coughing often indicates the advancement of the disease and lung damage.
How Do Vets Diagnose Heartworm Disease in Dogs?
We focus on antigen tests, microfilariae detection, and diagnostic imaging.
Antigen Test
Blood antigen tests help vets detect proteins from adult female heartworms. This method can identify the parasite even before symptoms appear in your dog.
Microfilariae Test
The microfilariae detection method detects immature worms that circulate in the dog’s bloodstream.
Diagnostic Imaging
Ultrasounds and X-rays are used to assess heart and lung damage, as well as to visualize any adult heartworms in dogs.
Heartworm Treatment for Dogs
Treating heartworm disease in dogs involves a series of steps to eliminate the worms while trying to minimize complications.
We use Melarsomine injections to eliminate adult heartworms. This is typically administered in 3 doses, which can kill approximately 98% of heartworms. The 2nd dose will be given 1 month after the 1st dose, with the 3rd given 24 hours after the 2nd
To address secondary infections, we’ll also administer antibiotics to eliminate Wolbachia, bacteria that live in heartworms. Other medications will be given to support recovery.
During treatment, dogs must not engage in any physical activity. Doing so will cause complications such as pulmonary embolism, a condition in which the dead heartworms cause obstructions and blockages.
If any microfilariae are present, then additional medications will be provided. This will require follow-up appointments and even prolonged clinic sessions.
Recovery and Prognosis for Heartworm Disease in Dogs
For mild to moderate cases, the prognosis is very good. Most dogs will recover from the damage. In severe cases, the permanent heart and lung damage will require continuous medication and limited activity.
After heartworm medications have been administered, dogs must remain at home, and physical activity must be restricted. Physical activity increases the risk of complications during the treatment process.
Follow-up care and regular preventive treatments will be recommended. You can opt to have your dog take monthly preventives, which often come in chewables, or an injectable medication every 6 to 12 months.
Once your dog returns to normal, they can slowly return to their regular activities.
Can Heartworms Go Away on Their Own?
No, these parasites don’t go away on their own. They will continue to grow and reproduce, causing more damage the longer they stay untreated. This can result in severe damage to the heart, lungs, and other essential organs.
Vet Tips: Heartworm Prevention for Dogs
Preventing these worms from infecting your dog is a much better scenario, as it’s safer and more cost-effective. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
Monthly Medications. There are preventative medicines, often in the form of topicals and oral tablets, that can be given monthly to dogs. These medications kill heartworm larvae before they mature.
Long-Acting Injections. Injectable medications are available to protect your dog for up to six months.
Annual Testing. We’ll conduct testing for heartworms to make sure your dog stays safe and that the preventives remain effective.
Mosquito Management. You must also eliminate any threat of mosquitoes in and around your home. You can use insect repellents, maintain ponds, and close windows.
"Your dog gave you their heart, be sure to protect it."
- Dr. Mafalda Sardinha
Final Thoughts
While heartworm disease in dogs can be fatal, it’s preventable and treatable. Work with our vets so we can provide the reliable protection your dog deserves. When we shield them from parasites like heartworms, we can give them a chance for a better and happier life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dog survive heartworm disease?
Many dogs can survive heartworm disease, especially with early detection and treatment. Even dogs with severe cases can recover eventually when given the right care and attention. However, the process will be lengthy for these cases.
Can a dog live a normal life with heartworms?
If a dog has heartworms, timely treatment will help them live a normal life. However, those who are untreated will progressively get worse as heart and lung damage worsen.
Do heartworms shorten a dog's life after treatment?
Generally, dogs that have received heartworm treatment can live full, healthy lives. If the disease is advanced, some dogs will need long-term care.
What kills heartworms in dogs naturally at home?
There are no proven home remedies that can safely eliminate heartworms in dogs. The only way to effectively treat this condition is to seek professional vet care.
Do I have to crate my dog after heartworm treatment?
Yes, you can crate your dog as strict rest is critical after they receive heartworm treatment. This is important in order to avoid any complications, like dead heartworms blocking blood flow.
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