April brings not just the beauty of spring but also a crucial reminder for pet owners: it's National Heartworm Awareness Month. At Bethany Animal Hospital we're dedicated to educating our community on the importance of heartworm prevention and the necessary steps to ensure the health and happiness of your pets.

Heartworm disease is a severe and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms living in the heart and lungs of dogs, cats, and other mammals. Mosquito bites are the primary cause of transmission, making prevention even more critical as we enter the warmer months.

Prevention is the most effective weapon against heartworm disease. Regular administration of preventative medication, as prescribed by your veterinarian, can save your pet. Treatment of heartworm disease for dogs can be a lengthy, difficult, and expensive process. There is currently no approved treatment for heartworm in cats.

This month, we encourage pet owners to:

Schedule a Heartworm Test: If your pet hasn't been tested for heartworms in the past 12 months, now is the time. Even if your pet regularly takes preventatives, yearly testing is recommended. While preventatives, when used correctly, are incredibly effective, yearly testing is the safest option, and often ensures your pet is covered by product guarantees. Early detection of heartworm disease minimizes damage and greatly helps pets return to their healthy, happy selves faster.

Start Prevention Early: Don't wait for the first mosquito bite. Heartworm preventatives work retroactively, by killing any larvae contracted in the month prior before they have the chance to become harmful. While mosquito numbers may dip dramatically in the winter, they may still be found within buildings, sewers, basements, etc., especially during inconsistent temperatures. Since it only takes one mosquito bite to transmit heartworm, it is safest to treat year-round. There are many convenient preventatives for heartworm, including chewables, topical treatments, and a yearly injection for dogs.

Stay Informed: Educate yourself and your family about heartworm disease and its implications for your pet's health.

Remember, protecting your pets from heartworm disease is a year-round commitment. Let's use Heartworm Awareness Month as a reminder to keep our beloved animals safe and healthy. For more information, or to schedule a heartworm test for your pet, contact Bethany Animal Hospital today.

Stay vigilant and keep your pets protected. Together, we can fight heartworm disease.