Pictures Of Heartworms In Dogs

Heartworms in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment and Pictures

Heartworms are parasites that can cause serious and potentially life-threatening health problems in both dogs and cats. These worms are spread by mosquitoes, and they can grow up to a foot long and live in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels of the host animal. The symptoms of heartworm infection in dogs can vary, but they include coughing, lack of energy, decreased appetite and weight loss. If the infection is left untreated, it can cause serious damage to vital organs and even death.

The good news is that heartworm disease can be prevented with regular treatments of heartworm preventive medications. Many of these treatments require a prescription from your veterinarian, so it’s important to stay up to date with your dog’s checkups. During these appointments, your vet will evaluate your pet for signs of heartworm disease and will also recommend the best course of treatment.

Signs & Symptoms of Heartworms in Dogs

The signs of heartworm infection in dogs can vary, but some of the most common symptoms include coughing, lack of energy, decreased appetite and weight loss. Other signs can include difficulty breathing, an enlarged abdomen, pale gums, and an swollen chest and/or legs. If left untreated, heartworm disease can cause serious damage to the heart, lungs, and other vital organs, and can even lead to death.

Diagnosis & Treatment of Heartworms in Dogs

If your dog is showing signs of heartworm disease, your veterinarian will likely recommend a series of tests. These tests will usually include a physical exam, a blood test and a chest X-ray. On the basis of these results, your vet will be able to make a diagnosis and recommend the best course of treatment.

The most common treatment for heartworm disease in dogs is a series of injections of an anti-parasitic medication. This medication kills the adult worms, and it can be given as an outpatient procedure. In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the adult worms. After the adult worms are removed, your dog will need to take a course of heartworm preventive medication to prevent reinfection.

Pictures of Heartworms in Dogs

The best way to get a better understanding of heartworms in dogs is to see pictures of them. Pictures of heartworms can be found online, in textbooks and even in pamphlets at your local veterinarian’s office. These pictures can help you understand the size and shape of the worms, and the damage they can cause to the heart and lungs. It’s important to remember that heartworms can be prevented with regular treatments of heartworm preventive medication.