So many of our island animals suffer from heartworm. While obviously street animals are not receiving preventative medicine, many pet owners don’t give their animals the pills that could save their lives. Often, people are just not aware of how dangerous heartworm can be and how preventing heartworm disease is safe, easy, and cost-effective.
What is Heartworm Disease?
Heartworm disease is caused by parasitic worms living in the heart and pulmonary arteries of the cat or dog. These worms are spread through mosquito bites, and just one bite is enough to infect your pet. Outdoor pets are at most risk, but even indoor pets can become infected.
Prevention
The first step is to have a simple blood test to check if your pet has heartworm. If the test is positive, then it’s important to start the appropriate treatment as soon as possible. If the test is negative, then you can begin preventative treatment options.
Some preventative products can not only protect your pet from heartworm, but also from other parasites, like roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. You can choose from a variety of products and a variety of delivery methods. Some can be given orally, others are topical.
Heartworm Facts
Heartworm disease is usually found in areas with hot, humid weather, and high numbers of mosquitoes.
It can be found in both dogs and cats. It can be fatal. Heartworm disease affects the heart, lungs, and pulmonary arteries, and it can be fatal. Dogs can be treated if diagnosed in time. There is currently no approved treatment for cats.
If you are coming to Roatan and able to donate any heartworm medicine, we would greatly appreciate it!
Why Foster an Cat or Dog?
