Heartworms are defined as a parasite in the same group as roundworms. This horrific parasitic worm infects many pets but is normally found in dogs. This worm is about the width of a thin strand of spaghetti. It can be viewed free floating in the dog’s heart and near the blood vessels. This parasite spends the majority of its life span within a dog’s heart. Basically, a heartworm infection can cause a serious disease in a dog that can lead to death.

So, how is this parasite spread? It can be easily spread by mosquitoes. The dog is bitten by the insect and it becomes infected by the microfilaria of the parasite. Now, when the bug bites another dog, the larvae enter into the new host through a wound. It can take up to six months before the offspring matures. The offspring lives in the heart and lungs of an animal releasing into the dogs blood stream and starts in a never-ending cycle. My dog once had a mild case of heartworms and he didn’t want to play with his dog toys or wear any of his dog clothes like he normally did.

It’s important that dog owners are aware that worms dwell in the vessels between the heart and lung. It can even fill the right ventricle of the heart. When this happens, it is described as Caval Syndrome. Heartworms animals destroy the red blood cells this is how blood develops in a dog’s urine.

What are the signs of this disease? A dog will not show outward signs of being infected during the early stages of infection. On the other hand, if a dog is active and has a heavier infection, then it will start to exhibit signs of infection. Keep in mind that it is important to treat your dog immediate if you believe that he may have this disease because if left untreated, it could result in death. Here are the signs:

· A bad cough

· A dog will become tired easily

· The dog lose a lot of weight

· The dog may cough up blood

· The dog may feel faint and become very weak and inactive

Heartworm is identified by a blood test or by x-ray. The dog’s blood is tested for the existence of a chemical released from the mature parasite. The blood test can only detect the disease when the worms are adults. Once the infection is detected, treatment should begin instantly. Mature heartworms are sabotaged by arsenic containing compounds such as Immiticide. All your dog may need is a drug to be injected into his muscle – but this has to be determined by his vet. During treatment, your dog will need a lot a rest in order to dissolve the dead worms.

When your dog is diagnosed with Caval Syndrome, your dog may need and given treatment from your veterinarian. So, how do you prevent heartworms? One of the most effective ways is to give your dog prophylactic treatment. This type of drug helps ninety-nine percent of treated pets. You can find out further information about this disease by contacting your veterinarian and searching online.