Heartworm Awareness

Did you know that there have been 106 cases of heartworm in New South Wales reported since 2014? Two of these cases were in 2017 in Tamworth, NSW.

Heartworm infection was once considered a threat mainly to tropical and sub-tropical coastal regions of Australia but is now an increasing concern in all states and territories.  

Since the recent rainfalls in this area, we must be aware of the increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Heartworm is one such disease. Mosquitoes are not only active at night and it is known that they will bite anytime of the day. All dogs, ferrets and cats are at risk even if they are predominantly or completely inside.

ENVIRONMENTAL RISK FACTORS

As it is more common for people to travel with their pets, the risk of heartworm spreading into low risk areas has increased.

It is not only infected domestic pets that can infect the mosquito but it can be found in wild dogs, Dingoes and foxes. This is why prevention of heartworm is so important.

There are a number of medications today that will prevent heartworm form devolving in your pet. These consist of:

·        Annual Injection

·        Monthly topical application (there is also a 2 monthly topical for cats-“Bravecto Plus”)

·        Monthly chews

 How does preventative medication work?

It works by killing the microfilaria before it has a chance to grow into an adult heartworm and set up residence in your pet’s heart, large arteries and lungs.  

Best practice is to start you puppy or kitten on heartworm prevention before they reach 6 months of age

These preventions do not kill the adult stage of the heartworm. Adults can live up to 5-7 years.

 If your dog is not on heartworm prevention and over 6 months of age, it is advised by veterinarians to have them tested before starting on any heartworm preventative. This is done by a simple blood test. Providing this test is negative, then your pet can be started on a prevention.

 What happens if my pet is positive for heartworm?

Unfortunately, there is no medical treatment for cats if they have developed adult heartworms.  However dogs can be treated medically, but it is a high risk, expensive and potentially fatal treatment.