Admin
1 April 2025
Heartworm disease is one of the most dangerous and often ignored health problems in dogs. It spreads silently through mosquito bites and slowly damages a dog’s heart and lungs. In India, where mosquitoes are common throughout the year, dogs face a higher risk if preventive care is ignored. Early awareness and prevention can save lives.
Heartworm disease is caused by parasitic worms that live inside a dog’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. These worms grow slowly and block blood flow, making it difficult for the heart and lungs to function properly.
Heartworm disease spreads through mosquito bites. When a mosquito bites an infected dog, it carries the larvae and passes them to another dog. Over several months, these larvae grow into adult worms inside the dog’s body.
In India’s climate, mosquito control is difficult, which increases the risk for both pet and stray dogs.
Early symptoms are mild and often ignored. As the disease progresses, dogs may show:
• Low energy and tiredness
• Coughing or breathing difficulty
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen belly in severe cases
Heartworm disease damages vital organs slowly. By the time clear symptoms appear, the infection may already be severe. Without treatment, heart failure and death are possible.
Heartworm disease is preventable. Monthly preventive medicines, regular vet check-ups, and mosquito control are key steps. Treatment is long, costly, and risky, which makes prevention the best option.
Heartworm disease may not show symptoms early, but its impact is serious. Awareness, timely prevention, and basic care can protect dogs from unnecessary suffering. A small step today can save a life tomorrow.
