Heartworm is a blood parasite transmitted by mosquitoes. The life cycle of heartworm involves mosquitoes that feed on infected domestic or wild dogs and then bite unprotected dogs. If infected and left untreated, heartworms will eventually migrate to the heart and surrounding blood vessels.
At Oakbank Animal Hospital, we recommend heartworm prevention annually from June to November and heartworm testing every 2 years as per the American Heartworm Society. These recommendations may be different if you are travelling down south to an endemic area where heartworm is present year-round. Please let your veterinarian know if you plan on travelling with your pet to ensure they are protected.
For more information on heartworm, please visit the American Heartworm Society.
