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At Loves Dogs, we care deeply about the health and happiness of every furry friend. As a nonprofit dog rescue, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects heartworm disease can have on dogs—and how preventable it truly is with proper care. Heartworm prevention is not just a recommendation; it’s an essential part of keeping your dog healthy, happy, and safe from harm.

What Are Heartworms and Where Are They Found?

Heartworms are parasitic worms that can cause severe and sometimes fatal damage to a dog’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. According to the American Heartworm Society (AHS), heartworms are found in all 50 states. However, the highest rates of infection occur in southern states like Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Alabama, and Arkansas. These regions are hotbeds for mosquitoes, the primary carriers of heartworms.

Interestingly, heartworms are making their way into new areas. States like Washington, Oregon, Kansas, North Dakota, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, which previously had low infection rates, are seeing increases. This spread is driven by the movement of infected dogs and mosquitoes, underscoring the importance of nationwide vigilance.

Why Heartworm Prevention Matters

Heartworm disease is 100% preventable, yet almost 1 in 3 veterinarians report that heartworm cases have risen in the past three years. Prevention is crucial for several reasons:

  1. Mosquito Preferences: Did you know mosquitoes are more likely to bite dogs already infected with heartworms? This increases the risk of spreading the disease to other pets in the area.
  2. Prevention Saves Lives: Treating heartworm disease is not only costly but also extremely hard on your dog’s body. Preventive medications are a far safer and more affordable alternative.
  3. Heartworm Prevention Works: Veterinarians who saw heartworm rates fall in their area attributed it to dog owners being diligent about prevention. Your proactive care can make a big difference!

The Role of Heartworm Prevention in Rescue Dogs

At Loves Dogs, many of the dogs we rescue come from areas with high heartworm prevalence. For these dogs, prevention is often a matter of life and death. While treatment is available, it’s a lengthy and expensive process that places significant stress on the dog. That’s why every dog adopted through our organization leaves with a supply of heartworm preventive medication and detailed instructions for continuing their care.

How to Protect Your Dog

  1. Year-Round Preventive Medication: Heartworm prevention is as simple as giving your dog a chewable tablet or applying a topical treatment once a month. Modern preventives are highly effective and easy to administer.
  2. Annual Testing: Even if your dog is on preventive medication, regular testing ensures that any potential infections are caught early.
  3. Education and Awareness: Share this graphic from the American Heartworm Society with friends and family to help spread awareness about heartworm risks and prevention.

Graphic courtesy of American Heartworm Society.

Join Us in the Fight Against Heartworm

Heartworm disease is preventable, yet far too many dogs suffer needlessly. By keeping your dog on a year-round preventive, you’re not only protecting their health but also helping to reduce heartworm prevalence in your community.

At Loves Dogs, we’re here to help. If you have questions about heartworm prevention or need resources for your pup, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can ensure every furry family member lives a long, healthy, and heartworm-free life.

Protect your pup today—because prevention saves lives.

Other Blog Resources:

The Importance of Heartworm Prevention for Dogs