A simple blood test can be performed by our veterinarians to detect the presence of adult heartworm infection (>6 month old infections) in your dog.
If positive then further tests, such as chest x – rays, a blood profile and an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis, evaluate the severity of the disease and to determine the best treatment plan for your dog.
The goal of treatment is to kill the adult worms present in your dog, as safely as possible. While your dog is being treated it will require complete rest throughout hospitalisation and for some time following the last treatment.
Additionally, other medications may be necessary to help control the body’s inflammatory reaction as the worms die and are broken down in the dogs lungs.
Yes! Heartworm infection is almost 100% preventable in dogs. Here at ADI we recommend a monthly chew called HeartGard. It’s highly palatable and few of our clients report any difficulty in giving it.
It must be noted that these preventatives do not kill adult heartworms, and will not eliminate heartworm infection or prevent signs of heartworm disease if adults are already present in your dog’s body. Therefore, a blood test for existing heartworm infection is recommended before beginning a prevention programme to assess your dog’s current heartworm status.
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