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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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