CommunityNews
Can infection be spread directly between dogs , from dog to cat , or from dogs to people ?
No , dogs can only get heartworm from an infected mosquito . Infection does not spread from dog to dog , dog to cat , or dog to people . However , both cats and dogs can be infected by heartworm if bitten by an infected mosquito .
What are the clinical signs of heartworm disease ?
In the early stages of the disease , dogs often have no clinical signs , especially if they are carrying only a few worms . As the disease progresses , clinical signs become more noticeable and include reluctance to exercise , rapid fatigue with exercise , coughing , and sometimes collapse . In advanced disease , dogs develop congestive heart failure . Dogs in congestive heart failure lose weight , have poor body condition , breathe rapidly or with difficulty , and develop a build-up of fluid in the abdomen .
Is there treatment for heartworm disease ?
Treatment usually involves two types of medication : one to kill the adult heartworms and one to kill the microfilariae . Treatment is usually effective , although there are cases where small numbers of adult heartworms remain after treatment .
There are frequently side effects associated with heartworm treatment due to dead worms being pumped out of the heart into the lungs . Side effects are more common in dogs with large numbers of adult heartworms , but all infected dogs are at risk . To minimize side effects , all dogs undergoing treatment must be kept very quiet during the treatment period and for four weeks afterward , even if they are not showing signs of illness . Other drugs , such as anti-inflammatory medication , antihistamines , and antibiotics may be used to reduce side effects and improve response to treatment . If serious complications arise , hospitalization for further treatment may be needed .
Mosquito Control - Did you Know ?
Both municipalities that service FCCSA members have a mosquito control program .
City of Sugar Land - Mosquito spraying occurs on Friday nights ( weather permitting ) during the months of May through October . When mosquito surveillance activities detect a higher than normal population of mosquitos , spraying may be increased to twice a week , Tuesdays and Fridays . More information can be found at this link : https :// www . sugarlandtx . gov / 588 / Mosquito-Control
Missouri City - The mosquito spraying schedule is every Thursday from 9pm to 5am during the months of May until the first week of November . If rained out , the truck will spray the next day . More information can be found at this link : https :// www . missouricitytx . gov / 483 / Mosquito-Spraying
How can I prevent heartworm disease in my dog ?
Annual heartworm testing followed by preventive medication is recommended to keep your dog free of heartworm disease . Several excellent preventive products are available to prevent heartworm disease in dogs . Your veterinarian can advise you on which product is most suitable for your pet , and whether year-round treatment is necessary .
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