Canine heartworms are on the rise - what are they, and how can we protect our pups?
Canine heartworms are on the rise - what are they, and how can we protect our pups?
In 2025, 2,441 cases of heartworm positive dogs were reported in the state of Ohio, with 1 in
every 300 dogs testing positive. Heartworms don’t discriminate: every breed, health, and lifestyle
of dog is susceptible.
What are heartworms?
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which will grow and mature in the heart, lungs, and major arteries of canines when infected. Dogs become infected with heartworms when bitten by an infected mosquito. The immature worms will then use the dog as a host to mature and multiply. After infection, it takes 6 months for the parasite to mature into adult heartworms. Without treatment, adult heartworms can live up to 7 years and can cause severe heart failure and damage to the body’s organs.
How can heartworms be prevented?
Proheart 12
As an injectable preventative, Proheart 12 allows for a full year of heartworm prevention. This modality can be helpful if your pet struggles with chewable tablets or if your lifestyle does not allow for consistent dosing every 30 days.
Simparica Trio
This oral preventative is given every 30 days and can be started as young as 8 weeks of age. Unlike most heartworm preventatives, Simparica Trio also prevents against fleas, ticks, and some intestinal parasites.
Heartgard Plus
Heartgard Plus is another oral preventative option for heartworm. Although it does not prevent fleas and ticks, some intestinal parasites are covered with this prevention. Given every 30 days, this can be combined with other flea/tick medications such as Bravecto or Nexgard
It is recommended by the American Heartworm Society to test your canine for heartworms yearly, which they require be performed before veterinarians can dispense heartworm prevention. They recommend year round prevention, as every canine is at risk, regardless of lifestyle, region, or weather outside.
It only takes one bite for a dog to become infected. Protect your pet with year-round heartworm prevention!
Treatment for heartworms is a long and costly process. Treatment injections are given 3 times (on days 0, 60, and 90) once the disease is confirmed. Exercise restriction, including only going outside leashed and for as minimal time as possible, is put into place for around 20 weeks following diagnosis.
We are here if you have questions!
(513)-932-4189 | lebanonsac@gmail.com
We look forward to seeing you at your next visit!
-Your Lebanon Small Animal Clinic Team
