Canine heartworm is caused by a roundworm that likes to live in the heart and the large lung vessels, according to the Rutgers Center for Vector Biology. The worms tend to live inside the heart and stretch through the vessels, impeding the ability of the heart valves to function properly. Mosquitoes carry larval heartworms and spread the parasite. The signs of canine heartworm often mimic other ailments, so it is essential that dogs that might have the parasite be treated by a veterinarian.
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Persistent Coughing
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A dry cough occurs when the heartworm parasites move to the lungs. Irritation in the lungs and associated vessels causes this cough. Because the parasites settle in the major veins of the heart, the lungs are one of the first destinations after the heart is infected. Although a dry cough can be a symptom of other ailments, a dog with a persistent dry cough should always be checked for heartworm infection by a veterinarian.
Low Energy
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A lethargic dog may be suffering from heartworm infection. As the infection spreads and impairs the organs, the dog is unable to function at full capacity. Food does not metabolize properly, and the dog cannot get enough energy to sustain normal activity. If your usually active dog has low energy and prefers to just hang around in one spot, it may be infected with heartworm.
Weight Loss
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Dogs with heartworm tend to lose a lot of weight. This may be the result of a lack of organ function, lack of exercise and lack of oxygen. Muscle tone is lost because of inactivity. A lack of oxygen keeps the body from metabolizing food properly. Organs with a lack of proper blood flow start to shut down and also contribute to an inability to digest food. As the dog becomes sicker, the appetite is suppressed even further, and weight loss is inevitable..
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