Why Does My Dog Need Year-Round Heartworm Care?
Mosquitoes are the source of heartworm infections. So, if there’s snow on the ground, why are you still giving your dog heartworm prevention medicine? The simplest answer is that weather changes quickly, and mosquitos can wake up pretty quickly after a thaw.
The longer answer has to do with the difference between prevention and treatment. Sure, it’s possible to treat many diseases. Heartworm included. However, by the time a dog is diagnosed with heartworm, these parasites have probably already damaged the inner lining of your pet’s heart and its heart valves. Prevention is usually easier, more economical, and certainly better for your pet than treating a disease after the fact. In addition to preventing dreaded heartworm disease, most heartworm prevention will also offer some protection against certain intestinal parasites. This added benefit of a monthly worming has the advantage also of keeping your pet parasite free, year-round. And yes, pets can pick up intestinal parasites even in the winter months.
If you tend to “forget” to give the monthly heartworm prevention, call CEDARCREST Animal Clinic at 540-943-7577. Our veterinarians can administer a heartworm prevention injection 2x yearly which prevents the mistakes of missing a monthly dose at home.
CEDARCREST Animal Clinic provides medical and surgical care for every stage of your pet's life including preventive wellness care exams and vaccines, spays/neuters, and a variety of specialized care for your dog, cat, avian, or exotic. We are home to the only veterinarian practitioner in Virginia to be double Boarded in Avian and Canine/Feline care and provide care for birds, small mammals, and reptiles of all sorts! Plus, we are home to Virginia's most exclusive dog boarding resort that includes heated floors, an expansive play area, and even webcams so you can watch your pet while you're away. We're located in Fishersville, Virginia, and serve Augusta County and surrounding areas including Waynesboro, Staunton, Harrisonburg, and Charlottesville.
Happy Mother's Day from your friends at Cedarcrest! We hope that all of the mothers out there have a wonderful day! 💗🌼
April is National Heartworm Awareness Month! Dogs need annual heartworm testing and year round prevention to keep these deadly parasites away. Give us a call at 540-943-7577 to schedule your dog’s heartworm test today!