Heartworms are dangerous and potentially fatal parasites that live in the lungs and heart of infected animals. Mosquitoes are the primary transmitters of heartworms. Most vets recommend giving pets a monthly heartworm pill, but some holistic vets and pet owners reject consistent medication due to unpleasant and potentially serious side effects. Some heartworm medications can cause liver problems, gastrointestinal problems, seizures, thyroid problems, nerve damage or even death. Though not scientifically proven, there are many natural ways to prevent your pet from a heartworm infestation.
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Diet and Exercise
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One of the most important things you can do to keep your pet free of parasites is to make sure he is eating a healthy diet and is getting plenty of exercise. Most veterinarians recommend a diet rich in whole foods, and many promote a raw diet that is similar to the diet of wild canines, such as wolves and coyotes. There are several all-natural pet foods available, and reading labels can give you a good idea of which foods are best. Look for pet foods that contain natural ingredients such as meats, rice and corn at the top of the list. Chemicals, by-products, synthetic ingredients and preservatives should be toward the end of the ingredient list if they appear at all. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise to maintain her general health and boost her immune system.
Diet Additions and Supplements
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Many pet owners mix small amounts of garlic into their pets' food to help strengthen the immune system and repel mosquitoes. Black walnut supplements and tinctures may help boost your pet's metabolism and repel parasites. Mugwort or wormwood supplements can be used as a monthly wormer to help your pet rid itself of internal parasites, including heartworms. Hawthorne berry supplements may help strengthen your pet's heart and improve blood flow, making him more resistant to heartworms.
Mosquito Repellents and Control
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It is best to keep your pet indoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Natural mosquito repellents help keep your pet free of heartworms. Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil and geranium extract can be mixed with water to create a mosquito repellent spray that you can use on your pet before each outdoor visit. If you have an outside dog, it is best to spray it down two to three times a day during the spring and summer months. Controlling mosquitoes around your home is also important to your pet's heartworm prevention program. Mosquitoes breed in water, so eliminating any standing water from your yard helps keep them at bay. If you have a decorative pond, consider adding some koi fish, that will eat mosquito larvae in the water. Encourage mosquito predators like spiders, frogs and bats to visit your yard by not destroying their homes.
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