More than a million pets in the U.S. have heartworms.
But heartworm disease is preventable
What is heartworm disease?
Heartworm disease is a life-threatening parasite (worm) that affects the bloodstream of both dogs and cats, that live in the heart. This parasite can decrease blood flow, cause damage to the heart and lungs, and is one of the leading causes of death of pets in East Texas.
How does my pet get heartworm disease?
Pets are infected with heartworms by ONE bite from an infected mosquito. Not all mosquitos are infected with this parasite, however, if you will refer to the incidence map above, you will note that Rains County and most of East Texas is in the highest population of disease, which indicates a significant amount of our mosquitos are carrying this disease to your pets.
What can I do to ensure my pet does not get heartworm disease?
Keeping your pets indoors, or with long hair, are NOT ways to prevent heartworm infection. The very deadly disease is only prevented and treated using veterinary administered, or prescribed products. Please contact our clinic today to discuss starting your pet on heartworm preventative.
If my pet does have heartworm disease, what can I do about it?
Here at Emory Veterinary Clinic, we treat patients weekly with heartworm disease, though it is both costly and does not come without consequences. Each pet is treated and staged as an individual and a treatment plan will be discussed with you that fits the needs of your pet, and your financial capability.
For more information regarding heartworm disease, please visit the American heartworm society website, where you will find the latest research and information.