Giving A Dog Heartworm Medicine That Has Heartworms
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease that affects dogs. It is caused by a parasitic worm that lives in the heart and lungs of infected dogs. The disease is spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It is important for dog owners to take preventive measures to protect their pets from heartworm disease. One of the most effective ways to prevent heartworm disease is to give dogs heartworm medicine. However, what happens when a dog that is already infected with heartworms is given heartworm medicine? In this article, we will explore this question and provide you with all the information you need to know.
What is Heartworm Medicine?
Heartworm medicine is a preventive medication that is given to dogs to protect them from heartworm disease. The medication works by killing the immature heartworms that are transmitted through mosquito bites before they can mature into adult worms that can cause serious damage to the heart and lungs. The medication is usually given once a month and is available in different forms such as chewable tablets, topical solutions, and injections.
Can You Give Heartworm Medicine to a Dog that Already Has Heartworms?
The short answer is yes, you can give heartworm medicine to a dog that already has heartworms. However, it is important to understand that heartworm medicine is not a treatment for heartworm disease. The medication only prevents the development of new heartworms and does not kill adult heartworms.
Therefore, if a dog is already infected with adult heartworms, giving heartworm medicine will not cure the infection. The adult heartworms will continue to cause damage to the heart and lungs of the infected dog. In fact, giving heartworm medicine to a dog with a severe heartworm infection can be dangerous as it can cause an adverse reaction that can be fatal.
What Should You Do if Your Dog Has Heartworms?
If you suspect that your dog has been infected with heartworms, it is important to take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian will perform a blood test to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the infection.
If your dog is diagnosed with heartworm disease, the veterinarian will recommend a treatment plan that may include medications to kill the adult heartworms, antibiotics to treat secondary infections, and rest to allow the heart and lungs to heal.
It is important to follow the veterinarian's instructions carefully and to ensure that your dog gets plenty of rest and avoids any strenuous activity during the treatment period. After the treatment is completed, the veterinarian will recommend a follow-up blood test to ensure that the infection has been cured.
Conclusion
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease that affects dogs. It is important for dog owners to take preventive measures to protect their pets from heartworm disease. Giving heartworm medicine to a dog that already has heartworms is not a treatment for the infection. If you suspect that your dog has been infected with heartworms, it is important to take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
