If your dog has tested positive for heartworms, your pet has a serious illness that is life-threatening if not treated. Heartworms are worms that live in your dog's heart. If allowed to continue, the worms will block the flow of blood to and from your dog's heart and cause your pet to die. Dogs are infected with heartworms when they are bitten by an infected mosquito. While natural treatments may be effective, especially when combined with conventional treatment, you must seriously weigh all treatment options for a dog with heartworm infection.
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Veterinarian
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Do not undertake natural treatment of a dog's heartworm infection without working with a holistic veterinarian. Heartworms are a serious infestation and you must work with a professional who understands the seriousness of the disease and who can guarantee that treatment will be effective. To locate a holistic veterinary practice near you, visit the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association's Web site at www.holisticvetlist.com.
Holistic
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Some holistic heartworm treatments that are being practiced by holistic veterinarians may be used if you take your dog to such a practitioner. A heartworm nosodes may be used for several days or weeks over a three-month period. This will likely be used in conjunction with a homeopathic remedy known as a Paratox and the feeding of diatomaceous earth daily for about one month. This treatment regime will likely also require the pet be on a natural diet, taking no antibiotics or steroids and not be fed any commercial pet foods.
Herbs
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Herbs are commonly used in the natural treatment of heartworms. Consult with your veterinarian before adding any herbs or supplements to your dog's treatment. Commonly prescribed herbs in the treatment of a dog's heartworm infection include black walnut, yucca, garlic, licorice, dandelion, wormwood, cloves, rosemary, thyme, mint, sage, milk thistle and hawthorn.
Diet
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Keeping your dog in the best possible shape will help any type of heartworm treatment to be most effective. Your holistic veterinarian will likely recommend you feed your dog a homemade diet made from human-grade ingredients. Milk, sugar and artificial flavors, colors and preservatives in your dog's food will be discouraged by the holistic veterinarian. Feeding your dog some raw meats, bones and vegetables will likely be encouraged.
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