Heartworm, if gone undetected, can be a slow and painful killer for your animal. Adult heartworms block the arteries leading to the lungs, and irritate the network of blood vessels between the heart and lungs. If one hundred or more worms are present, the entire right side of the heart will be filled leaving little room for blood to be pumped. This is called Caval Syndrome and few survive it.
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The Facts
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The slow kill method is achieved by giving the animal ivermectin (Heartguard) once per month. The ivermectin will stop new heartworms from growing, and gradually kill the existing parasites over a period of one to two years. Without treatment a heartworm can live up to five years.
Benefits
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The slow kill treatment is the most cost effective way to treat heartworms. It is also the gentlest way to rid your animal of the parasites.
Risks
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If your animal is past stage one of infection, this method may be ineffective. The dying worms stay in your animal for a much longer period of time. This poses the risk of pulmonary emboli which can be fatal.
Other Treatment Types
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The fast kill method can be used if your animal is in a more advanced stage of infestation, or the heartworms can be surgically removed.
Tips
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Your dog will be working hard to excrete the parasites. You can help him stay strong by feeding a quality diet. Talk to your veterinarian about a vitamin supplement to give during treatment.
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