what worm is heartworms
Heartworms are parasites transmitted by mosquitoes. Heartworm infection can kill dogs and cats. Heartworm is a nematode worm (Dirofilaria immitis) that lives inside blood vessels in the lungs of infected animals. In severe infections the adult heartworms can even be found living inside the heart.
Dirofilariasis in Dogs (Heartworms in Dogs) Dogs suffering from heartworms are, in fact, infested by the organism Dirofilaria immitis, a parasitic nematode (roundworm) commonly referred to as the heartworm.