What is heartworm disease?

Heartworm is a worm found throughout mainland Australia that can cause potentially fatal disease in dogs. Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes so any dog can be infected if they are not given regular preventative treatment. Heartworms can grow up to 30cm long and live in the heart and the surrounding blood vessels. This can lead to heart failure and severe lung disease if left untreated. Treatment for heartworm disease is also quite risky so PREVENTION is best.

How can my dog be infected with heartworm?
Your dog can be infected with heartworm through a mosquito bite.

How is heartworm prevented?
There are a number of excellent products available to prevent heartworm in dogs. These include a yearly injection and/or monthly tablets. It is essential that heartworm prevention is given on time and regularly.

What symptoms would my dog show if infected?
The main symptoms of an established heartworm infection are exercise intolerance and a cough. Some dogs may also lose weight and become quite lethargic or tired. Collapse, difficulty breathing, pulmonary embolism and heart failure can occur as the heartworm infestation becomes more severe.

Symptoms usually do not appear for a long time after your pet is infected, due to worms initially being microscopic, and then continuing to grow. It can take up to a year post infection before your dog starts showing signs and by then the damage sustained may be permanent.

Can heartworm infection be treated?
Heartworm infection can be treated. The recommended treatment does depend on how severe the infection is. In severe cases the treatment is long and unfortunately not all dogs survive. Because treatment is not always successful we strongly recommend regular prevention.

Can my cat be infected with heartworm?
Cats can be infected with heartworm although it is very rare compared to dogs. We recommend heartworm prevention in cats and there are several products available for prevention.