Heartworm in Dogs – Some Questions & Answers

The common questions about heartworm in dogs are often related to the other species affected by heartworms in addition to dogs. One

should know that in addition to dogs, cats, foxes, wolfs, horses, sea lions etc. are also affected. Can this be cured or not? Yes. This can be treated.

Let's dive right in.

Questions & Answers About Heartworm in Dogs

What drug is used most often to prevent heartworm in dogs?

Ivermectin is the drug used most often to provide a preventive action against this disease. Infected dogs exhibit constant coughing, panting and dullness in their eyes.

What is the size of the worms?

In the case of females, they are about twenty-seven centimeters in length and in the case of males, they are about seventeen centimeters in length.

Is there any vector involved in the transmission of the disease?

Yes. Mosquitoes often get associated as vectors of heartworm in dogs in which the early development of larvae of heartworms occur in them.

Is prevention meant only for heartworms or others also?

Yes. Prevention is meant not only for heartworms but also for hook worms, whip worms, and round worms.

What stage of of larvae is associated with the transmission of these heartworms?

It is the third stage larva that is transmitted by mosquito bites.

This occurs throughout the world. In some areas, the incidences

of heartworm in dogs are less in colder months. Due to the absence of mosquito breeding and may be dormant during these periods.

What is the name of the drugs used for therapy and prevention of heartworm in dogs?

Ivermectin and milbemycin oxime may be used for both purposes. Ivermectin is available in injection form and oral form.

Additionally, there are other forms of drugs for external application that are also available to treat heartworm in dogs. The cost factor needs to be worked out for all these treatments.

What is the frequency of the drug used for prevention of heartworm in dogs?

One month before the mosquito season and up to two months after the mosquito season begins. Ivermectin or milbemycin oxime may be given once monthly for continued prevention.

Diethylcarbamazine may also be used for prevention and therapy purposes.

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