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Heartworm,
Mosquitoes and Pets
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A serious parasitic infection in dogs
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Summary: Heartworm
is a parasitic worm that occurs mainly in dogs and
can be fatal. The worms are transmitted by
the bite of mosquitoes. In parts of the
country where heartworm is common dogs should be
routinely treated with medications that prevent
the disease.
Jack DeAngelis, PhD
OSU Ext. Entomologist
(ret.)
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What is heartworm disease?
Heartworm is a very serious often
fatal disease caused by a nematode (roundworm)
that infects the heart, lungs and blood vessels of
certain mammals. Unlike most nematodes which are
tiny, heartworm nematodes grow to be large (up to
14") and can physically clog the heart and
arteries of infected animals (right). Infection
causes severe heart, lung and liver injury and
often results in death.
How are animals infected with heartworm?
Immature heartworms are transmitted by
the bite of mosquitoes. Once introduced
into the blood the tiny worms grow rapidly and
produce new offspring. A mosquito bite is the
only way an animal can become infected with
adult heartworm. Dogs (all breeds) are
highly susceptible to heartworm infection while
cats are less affected. See Related Articles
below for ways to reduce mosquitoes in your yard.
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Heart infested with heartworm.
Image from the American Heartworm Society.
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Where does heartworm occur?
In the US heartworm is endemic in all
states except Alaska, and including Hawaii. The
highest incidence of infection occurs within about
150 miles of the Atlantic coast, especially south of
New York to Florida, the Gulf Coast and along the
Mississippi and Missouri River systems. You
should ask your veterinarian if heartworm has been
found in your immediate area. Heartworm
occurs worldwide in all temperate regions as well.
How do I prevent heartworm?
Where heartworm is common, dogs should be
regularly treated to prevent the disease.
Fortunately disease prevention is relatively easy
and inexpensive. There are a number of medications
that can be given once a month that will completely
prevent heartworm disease. Some of these
medications control fleas and ticks as well, however
I prefer to separate the two because monthly flea
and tick treatments may not be needed (see Flea
Control for Pets).
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Heartgard or Interceptor medications
Both Heartgard (tm) and Interceptor
(tm) are effective for monthly heartworm treatments.
The active ingredient in Heartgard is ivermectin
while the active ingredient in Interceptor is milbemycin oxime.
All heartworm medications require
a prescription. An initial vet exam is
required because giving these medications to an
animal that is infected with heartworm already may
result in a fatal reaction.
Some heartworm medications include
ingredients to treat other parasitic worms such as hookworms
and tapeworms, this is the "Plus" part of
some products. Normally these intestinal worms do
not need monthly treatment so save your money and
get the single ingredient versions, then use a
"de-wormer" when needed.
Mosquito Bites
Transmit Heartworm
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