How to Recover From Heartworm Treatment

Heartworm disease is transmitted to animals via mosquito bites. It affects many domestic and wild animals but it is mostly found in dogs through bloodwork at a verterinary clinic. The main symptom of heartworm in dogs is coughing. Dogs also become lethargic and stop activities and exercise. This disease is preventable, and veterinarians advise that most dogs get on preventative treatment to avoid infection; however, even if your pet contracts heartworm, it is treatable and your furry friend may recover.

Things You'll Need

  • Oral ivermectin
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get a diagnosis. You can't treat and expect recovery from heartworm disease if you don't know that it's definitely the problem. Have your vet give your pet an antigen blood test to determine if it is suffering from the disease.

    • 2

      Start heartworm disease treatment after a positive diagnosis. The recovery process cannot start without beginning the treatment in the first place. Visit your vet to get injections and oral ivermectin that will kill the larvae or mature worms that are causing the problem.

    • 3

      Have your pet rest in his crate. Crating your dog prevents it from running around and being active too soon, which could cause pulmonary embolism during the process of passing and removing the worms from his system. The length of time needed for this rest period depends on how sick your pet had become while suffering from the disease. Consult with your vet before and during the rest process to determine how long this period should last. It could be days or even weeks.

    • 4

      Watch for signs of recovery. Coughing should diminish and energy should increase. Keep exercise to a minimum, a short, gentle walk for eliminating, but no vigorous activity is allowed during the recovery period. Restricting activity is typically prescribed for the first two weeks after heartworm treatment. A lack of noticeable improvement includes continued or worsening cough and profound lethargy, which could lead to heart failure. Seek your veterinarian's advice if there is no sign of improvement within the first few days or week.

    • 5

      Start a regular monthly preventative treatment program. Give your dog a dose of oral ivermectin preventative medication every month. Although conventional preventative treatment is administered to dogs who have not had heartworm only during warm seasons, your vet may want your dog on ivermectin year-round, especially if you live in a region that has mosquitos. The medication can be obtained from your vet and is given by mouth. The medication often comes in soft chews that are flavored to make it more palatable.