Pet Wellness

How Is Heartworm Disease Treated?

2017-06-30

Dogs that test positive for heartworm disease are treated with a series of injections that kill heartworms. The immature heartworms are killed with an oral dose of Ivermectin. During the treatment, owners are advised to keep the dog very quiet, with no strenuous exercise, which could hinder recovery and exacerbate the clinical signs of illness. We prescribe an antibiotic and prednisone to decrease inflammation as well to treat Wohlbachia, a parasite that often accompanies adult heartworms. Other medications are prescribed based on the degree of damage to the heart and blood vessels sustained as a result of infection. Cats are generally treated with a combination of prednisone, and a bronchodilator.

St. Louis Park Veterinarian

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Roundworm Infection in Dogs
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Beat the Heat - Summertime Pet Safety Tips

5/16/2022

Never leave your pet alone in the car. Even with the car running and the air conditioner on, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. On an 85°degree day, with the windows opened slightly, the temperature in the car can reach 102° in 10 minutes and 120° in 30 minutes. When in doubt, leave your pet at home.

Exercise during cooler hours. Pets may be eager to be outside during the summer, but its important to pay attention to temperature and humidity levels. Exercise your pet when temperatures are cooler, such as in the early morning or evening hours, especially if they are overweight or flat-faced. Also remember, if the asphalt is too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for their paws, so encourage them to walk on grass if possible.

Protect against external parasites. Fleas, ticks, and heartworms (transmitted by mosquitoes) are out in force during the summer months. Protect your pet year-round with preventative medicine as prescribed by your veterinarian.

Gnat Bites

5/18/2020

Many dog owners are noticing small (less than 1 inch diameter), bullseye patterned marks on the underside of their dog. These marks are often caused by a species of gnat that emerges from the grass and bites the dog. The bites cause a bullseye mark that many confuse with a bullseye rash caused by the Lyme disease bacteria. It is important to note that dogs do not develop a bullseye rash with Lyme disease exposure, only people do.

The Realities of Heartworm Disease

12/10/2018

Heartworm disease is found in many areas of the world, including the United States. It is a serious disease that can be fatal, even with treatment. It is caused by worms that can grow up to a foot long, and live in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels of affected animals.