A healthy heart is a healthy life. Regular heartworm testing should be at the top of your To-Do List when it comes to protecting your pet’s heart. Heartworms can cause serious health issues that could be fatal if left untreated. To help protect your loyal companion’s heart against unwanted parasites, book an appointment for your pet by giving us a call at 250-828-2939.
How do pets get heartworm?
Heartworms are parasites that can make their way into your pet’s bloodstream and worm their way up to the heart. When an infected mosquito bites your pet, it can release heartworms into your pet’s bloodstream. If your pet is bitten multiple times, this can cause them to reproduce and build up in your pet’s system. It can be hard to tell if your pet has been infected, so bringing them in for regular heartworm testing a few times per year is essential. Our veterinarians can diagnose and stop them in their tracks before they cause any severe damage.
How do I know if my pet has heartworm?
Days or even years could go by before your pet starts showing any signs or symptoms of infection. Regular heartworm testing is the best solution to prevent and treat your pet, who may be experiencing non-visible symptoms. We recommend bringing them in for testing annually as it can also be done during their wellness exam. Through a blood test, our veterinarians can determine if your pet has been infected and create a treatment plan to have them feeling better in no time. Signs your pet may be infected include:
- Persistent coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Reluctance to exercise
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
