Dr. Sharon Hurley said the New Ulm clinic alone had 25 diagnosed cases last year and has already diagnosed 10 cases this year. Heartworm disease is transmitted from dog to dog, and occasionally cats, by mosquitoes. There is no breed distinction, Hurley explained.
All dogs are susceptible, no matter how little time they spend outdoors.
Dr. Greg Windschill believes prevention is the key to dealing with heartworm disease. Once it has been determined that the animal is negative, then the animal should be given a monthly prevention medication no later than 30 days after temperatures go above 50 degrees. Windschill recommends the last dose of the season should be given in December or given year-round if it is a mild winter. The reason is the medication destroys the immature heartworm larvae that have been transmitted by mosquitoes in the previous 30 days. Dr. Deb Kaehler believes the number of cases may be higher because more people are having their pets tested.