Heartworm is a serious pet illness caused by a parasitic worm that invades the heart. The disease can cause severe physical problems, such as lung disease, heart failure, organ damage and death in dogs. Have your dog tested annually for heartworms, give your pet heartworm medication and learn the symptoms so you can prevent the disease.
Things You'll Need
- Heartworm medication prescribed by your vet
- Observance of symptoms
Instructions
The first symptom of heartworm is typically a mild cough. Although a cough is common on dogs, don't overlook it knowing that it may be signaling a heartworm problem. If you know that your pet has not taken heartworm medications regularly, then a mild cough should be enough of a red flag to warrant a visit to the veterinary office.
Take note of signs of fatigue. If normal activities such as running in the yard or up the stairs tires out your dog, then there is a good chance there may be a problem.
Shortness of breath in your dog is another early warning sign of heartworm disease. If he suffers labored breathing and or is gasping for air, consult your veterinarian.