If you’ve ever heard the word heartworms and felt a little uneasy, you’re not alone. Many pet parents worry about what heartworms really are, how serious they can be, and whether their dog is at risk.
At Midland Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you understand heartworm disease clearly and calmly—so you can protect your pet with confidence.
What Are Heartworms?
Heartworms are long, spaghetti-like parasites that live in a dog’s:
- Heart
- Lungs
- Major blood vessels
They can grow up to 12 inches long and, over time, interfere with normal heart and lung function.
Heartworm disease develops slowly, which is why dogs can appear healthy in the early stages—even while damage is occurring internally.
How Are Heartworms Spread?
Heartworms are spread only through mosquito bites.
Here’s how it works:
- A mosquito bites an infected animal and picks up microscopic baby heartworms.
- That mosquito then bites another dog.
- The larvae enter the bloodstream and mature over several months.
- Adult heartworms settle in the heart and lungs.
Because mosquitoes are common in Georgia, heartworm prevention is especially important year-round in our area.
What Do Heartworms Cause?
As heartworms grow and multiply, they can cause:
- Persistent coughing
- Fatigue after mild activity
- Weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Difficulty breathing
In severe cases, heartworms can lead to:
- Heart failure
- Lung disease
- Organ damage
- Collapse
The longer the infection goes untreated, the more serious the damage can become.
The Good News: Heartworms Are Preventable
Heartworm disease is much easier—and safer—to prevent than to treat.
Monthly preventatives are highly effective and safe. Regular annual testing ensures that prevention is working and allows us to catch any issues early.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Contact your veterinarian if your dog:
- Has missed heartworm prevention doses
- Is coughing or tiring easily
- Has a swollen belly or breathing changes
- Has never been tested for heartworms
Even if your dog seems perfectly healthy, routine testing is an important part of preventive care.
At Midland Animal Hospital, we’re committed to treating your pets like family.
If you’re ever unsure about your dog’s heartworm protection—or just want peace of mind—we’re here to help you make the best decision for your pet’s long-term health.
MESSAGE US NOW at Midlandah.com, Midlandah@gmail.com or call 706 323-8316.
In summary
Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes and are parasites that live in a dog’s heart and lungs. They can cause coughing, fatigue, heart damage, and even heart failure—but they are highly preventable with monthly medication and annual testing. If you have concerns or your pet is due for prevention, reach out to your veterinarian right away.