Heartworm disease is a life-threatening — and sometimes lethal — illness in dogs caused by Dirofilaria immitis, a parasitic worm that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. The danger of heartworm disease is that it progresses silently. In the early stages, most dogs don't exhibit any symptoms, and when symptoms do show up, the disease may have already caused tremendous internal damage.
As a responsible parent to a pet, knowing how to detect the initial signs and knowing why prevention is so crucial is the best way to safeguard your pet.
What Is Heartworm Disease?
After a dog is bitten by an infected mosquito, the heartworm larvae travel through the blood and embark on a months-long journey to the heart, lungs, and nearby blood vessels. Within the next 6 months, the larvae develop into adult worms — some reaching lengths of 12 inches — and begin to reproduce. A dog can have dozens of worms, causing the cardiovascular system to clog up and generating lung disease, heart failure, and death if not treated.
First Signs of Heartworms in Canines
Although symptoms will not necessarily be apparent early on, there are slight variations that can signal infection. These are the important indications to be aware of:
1. Persistent Cough
Unlike the dry, hacking cough of a cold or kennel cough, coughing due to heartworms is dry, subdued, and persistent. It can be exacerbated after exercise and is the result of the worms inducing inflammation in the lungs and large vessels.
2. Exercise Intolerance
Does your dog tire unexpectedly after a brief walk? If they're easily winded or reluctant to play, it may indicate their heart and lungs are having trouble pumping adequate amounts of blood and oxygen while active.
3. Reduced Appetite and Weight Loss
As the infestation becomes worse, your dog's appetite will decline. You might see them eat less, or lose weight without dietary changes. This is usually a sign of systemic stress or discomfort.
4. Hard Breathing
You may notice strange sounds while breathing, wheezing, or see shallow and/or fast breathing, even when your dog is sleeping. This may occur as the worms compress lung arteries.
5. Fatigue & Lethargy
Your dog could seem more lethargic than normal, sleeping more or not wanting to do normal activities. Heartworm disease drains a dog's energy and affects quality of life.
6. Bloated Stomach (Ascites)
Later on, fluid may accumulate in the abdominal cavity as a result of congestive heart failure, which causes a swollen or distended belly — an emergency warning sign.
7. Collapse or Sudden Death
In some cases of heavy infestation, the dogs will suddenly collapse, particularly if many worms clog the blood supply to the lungs and heart. This is uncommon but usually fatal unless treated promptly.
Why You Should Never Wait for Heartworm Symptoms
Perhaps the most concerning fact is that most dogs don't exhibit symptoms until the disease has progressed. At that point, treatment is more difficult, costly, and hazardous. Prevention is therefore the sole absolutely safe choice.
Keep Your Dog Safe with Reliable Heartworm Preventatives
You don't need to wait for danger to materialize. There are safe, veterinarian-approved preventive measures that can prevent heartworm larvae from even developing in the first instance.
Here are the top picks trusted by pet owners and veterinarians worldwide:
A monthly beef-flavored chewable that kills heartworm larvae and treats common intestinal worms like roundworms and hookworms. Dogs love the taste, and you'll love the peace of mind.
Simparica Trio
An advanced all-in-one chew that protects against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. Ideal for dog parents who want full parasite coverage in a single monthly dose.
Milbemax
A convenient broad-spectrum tablet providing protection against heartworms, tapeworms, roundworms, and hookworms. Ideal for small and large dogs alike.
Interceptor Plus
Not only does it prevent heartworms, but it also offers long-lasting protection against 5 of the most common intestinal parasites. A reliable choice for year-round protection.
Final Thoughts
Heartworm disease is terrifying — but entirely preventable. By recognizing the first signs and committing to a monthly prevention routine, you can keep your dog happy, healthy, and heartworm-free for life.
Your dog gives you unconditional love. Give them protection in return.
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