Do I really need to give my dog heartworm prevention year around?
As pet owners, we strive to provide the best care for our furry friends. When it comes to heartworm prevention, the question often arises: "Do dogs need heartworm prevention year-round?" At TrueHeal Veterinary Hospital, we firmly believe that year-round heartworm prevention is not only recommended, but it is a necessary step in maintaining the overall well-being and health of our canine companions.
Understanding Heartworm Disease
Yes, mosquitoes need relatively warm conditions (~57°F) for heartworm larvae to develop to the infective stage. Warm days present an opportunity for mosquitoes to spread heartworm larvae. So let’s skip some winter months and save some money? If only things would be so easy.
The Importance of Year-Round Prevention
Mosquitoes are not seasonal: Did you know the record high temperature in January in Michigan was 62° in 2019 and 58° in 2014?
You never know when the weather may become unseasonably warm in our area. IEven without unusually high temperatures, mosquitoes can adapt to cold weather, and some even manage to stay alive indoors all winter long. It takes only one bite from an infected mosquito to transmit heartworm larvae to your pet. By providing year-round heartworm prevention, we ensure continuous protection against potential mosquito bites and subsequent heartworm transmission.
Effective preventive measures - Heartworm preventives are designed to kill any larvae present in the dog's system before they mature into adult worms. Consistency is key when administering these preventives. By adhering to a year-round preventive regimen, we ensure that the dog remains protected without any lapses.
Avoiding potential complications -When left untreated, heartworm disease is 100% fatal for dogs. Treating heartworm disease can be challenging, costly, and stressful for both the dog and the owner. The treatment process often involves multiple veterinary visits, medications, and possibly even hospitalization. Furthermore, infected dogs may experience complications such as heart or lung damage, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Prevention is always safer and less burdensome than treatment.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Assumption of low-risk areas: Some pet owners living in areas with a purportedly low mosquito population may believe that year-round heartworm prevention is unnecessary. However, it is important to remember that mosquitoes can be found in unexpected places, including indoor environments and regions not typically associated with high mosquito activity. It is always safer to err on the side of caution and provide consistent heartworm prevention.
Skipping winter months: Since mosquitoes appear less active during the winter season, some pet owners may consider skipping heartworm prevention during this time. However, studies have shown that mosquitoes can survive in protected environments, such as basements and garages, and some species can even withstand freezing temperatures. Considering this, a consistent year-round preventive approach remains essential.
Heartworm disease is a serious threat to our beloved dogs, and year-round prevention is the most effective way to combat it. By maintaining a consistent preventive regimen, regardless of the season or geographical location, we can ensure the well-being and longevity of our four-legged companions. As responsible pet owners, let's prioritize their health and seek guidance from our trusted veterinarians to determine the best heartworm preventive plan for our dogs. Remember, prevention is always better than the cure.