Heartworm Prevention

An Overview of Heartworm Prevention from Friendly Animal Hospital

If an animal is suffering from heartworms, this can be a serious issue. These are worms that target the heart, which is one of the most important organs in the body. The heart pumps blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the rest of the body, making it very important to the function of the body. Heartworms can lead to major complications in the heart, lungs, and other organs, so it is important for pet owners to understand what heartworms are and how they can be prevented. At Friendly Animal Hospital, we are here to help pet owners make sure their pet does not develop a heartworm infection. We are here to serve the families of the Huntington Beach area.

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The Life Cycle of Heartworms

The transmission of heartworms starts with a primary host. The parasitic heartworms spawn offspring in the host, called microfilaria. Then, these offspring will live in the circulatory system of the pet (host), remaining there for several years. These offspring are then transmitted to new hosts via mosquitoes. When the mosquito bites a new host, the heartworms are transmitted. This is how the disease cycle unfolds.

Preventing the Heartworm Cycle

There are a few ways that heartworms can be prevented in pets. A vet provides pet owners with options on how to prevent heartworms. Some of the possible options include:

  • A chewable pill that pets can take about once per month
  • A topical cream that can be applied once per month
  • An injection that can be given about twice per year

These options will be discussed with pet owners during a visit. This is one of the many reasons why it is important for pets to see the doctor at least once per year for a checkup.

Contact Friendly Animal Hospital Today to Make an Appointment

At Friendly Animal Hospital, we are here to make sure that pets in the Huntington Beach area have access to a reliable veterinarian. We will make sure that your pet has the care that he or she deserves. We do everything we can to ensure that your pet is treated with love and compassion by our team. If you are looking for a veterinarian in the local area who will place the needs of your pet first, please give us a call today to schedule an appointment. We can't wait to meet your pet! 

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