Do you really need to worry about heartworms?

"Please don't bite me!"

Heartworm disease is one of the most common and preventable diseases encountered in pets. Caused by a parasite that is transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworm disease can result in devastating lung inflammation, heart failure, and damage to other parts of the body. Successful treatment can be risky and quite expensive. Prevention of heartworm infections is the key and that is why it is on our list of the Top 10 Ways to Avoid High Vet Bills.

Dogs are the natural and intended hosts for heartworms. Cats are not natural hosts, so they are less frequently affected.

If you live in any region of the country that has mosquitoes, then you live in an area that has heartworm disease. And if you own a dog that is not routinely tested, and kept consistently--year round--on heartworm preventative medication, then there is a high risk that your dog will be infected.

Myth:

"My dog is an inside dog, so heartworm disease is not a concern."

Buster:

There are plenty of opportunities for a mosquito to bite a dog that only goes outside to eliminate. Also, mosquitoes love to feed indoors on a dog that uses potty pads. When it comes to mosquitoes and heartworms in the Southeast, there is no such thing as an "indoor dog".

Myth:

"Mosquitoes can't penetrate a long or heavy haircoat."

Buster:

Mosquitoes are very adept at getting down to skin through any haircoat, and they often feed on the top and relatively hairless part of a dog's nose.

Adult Heartworms

Myth:

"It is expensive to keep my dog on heartworm prevention."

Buster:

The cost vs. benefit analysis of heartworm prevention cannot be overstated. Heartworm disease continues to be very common and the expenses associated with the resulting illness and treatment far exceed the cost of prevention. And fortunately, many low cost options for heartworm prevention are available.

"Me? Worry?"

So, do you really need to worry about heartworms? 
With timely testing and consistent prevention, we can work together to help ensure that you and your dog never suffer the consequences of Heartworm Disease, thus making the answer to that question - NO!

What do Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Years mean for your pet?

We all look forward to the holiday season, and when fall hits the air we know that a long period of celebration is just around the corner. During this time, it is important that we take precautions to protect our pets from the stress and dangers that they may face. We see many preventable illnesses during the holidays. Here are some tips to keep your pet happy and safe:

Be mindful of the many plants, treats, and food items that can be toxic (poinsettias, lilies, holly, onions, chocolate, dough, and items sweetened with xylitol). For a more complete list of toxic substances, see the poison control information at ASPCA.org. 

Vomiting and diarrhea are common reasons for a trip to the vet during the holiday season. Food from the table or the trashcan, even if not on the "toxic list", seems to be ingested more frequently during celebratory gatherings, and may cause gastrointestinal upset.

When toys, tinsel, and other decorations are around, the chance for foreign body ingestion rises sharply. Open flames are also a danger for swishing tails and curious noses. Traffic often increases during the holidays, so the chance of being hit by a car rises. Keep a sharp eye out for potential hazards, and as always, SUPERVISE!

Family gatherings involving people--especially children--unfamiliar to your pet can be stressful. Consider your pet's need for a safe and quiet place away from the chaos.

Don't forget the fireworks on New Year's Eve and their potential effect on your pet. Be sure to plan ahead if your pet will require medication to ease his or her fear of loud noises.

With a little forethought and planning, the holiday season can be as joyous as it should be and need not be a time for an unexpected trip to the vet!