Numerous local veterinarians are diagnosing heartworm in their patients, and with the advent of the rain we had in February, there will be more mosquitoes than usual. Since mosquitoes spread heartworm we expect the number of cases to increase. Heartworm is a parasite that literally causes worms in the heart, leading to heart failure. Unfortunately, the treatment for heartworm involves the injection of a potent medication that can make a dog ill. Dead heartworms can cause an inflammatory reaction that can also make a dog very ill.
Prevention is obviously better than treating.
The medication we use is called Sentinel, by Novartis. Sentinel also control fleas and internal parasites, so you are helping your pet with other common problems. Before any dog is started on Sentinel it must test negative for heartworm. Please take advantage of this offer and call our office for an appointment to have one of our nurses perform your dogs heartworm test before May 31st. This radiograph is from an older cat with a limping problem.