Canine Heartworm Infection (DILOFILARIA IMMITIS)
Were you aware that there are on average fifty cases of heartworm infections diagnosed each year in Québec?
Mosquitoes transmit this disease during the warm season. The larvae injected into the animal develop into worms that live in the heart and can cause potentially fatal obstruction of the heart vessels as well as heart failure.
The hosts for this disease are mainly Coyotes and unprotected dogs.
All regions south of Québec City are areas where the transmission of this disease is a risk. The risk increases toward the south. Rural as well as urban pets are equally at risk.
For these reasons, we recommend adequate heartworm protection for all dogs during the mosquito season. The prescribed medication should be given on a monthly basis from June till November every year.
Heartworm testing should be done every second year in our region. This blood test can detect the presence of adult heartworms in an animal and thus allows us to treat an infested dog before clinical signs become apparent thus improving the outcome.
All of the medications used to prevent heartworm infection also have efficacy in the control of intestinal worms that are present in 25% of dogs. Certain products also protect against fleas and mites.
Discuss the different options with your veterinarian to find the best medication for your pet and enjoy a parasite free summer with your pet!!
Dr Gauthier-D.
