The Importance Of Heartworm Prevention
We all bring our dogs in every year for a Heartworm Test and Prevention, but do we really know what it's all about? In a nutshell, Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) are transmitted to our pets by mosquitoes. With an overabundance of mosquitoes here in Minnesota, all ages and breeds of dog are at risk. In addition to living inside dogs, Heartworms can also live and reproduce in other canine type hosts such as coyotes and foxes. Mosquitoes that bite any infected animal can then transmit the Heartworm Disease to our pets. Untreated, the disease is often fatal.
What to do? It is recommended to test all dogs annually for Heartworm Disease. This is a simple blood test, usually with same day results. Here at Marschall Road Animal Hospital, our Heartworm Test also includes a result for Lyme Disease and 2 other common tick transmitted diseases. Also included is a Mini-Profile, which provides results for Kidney and Liver values. This is important because As Pets Age, changes to the health of the Kidneys or Liver can often be detected early.
Prevention is Key. After getting the all-clear on your Heartworm Test, monthly prevention is needed. We recommend using Heartgard Plus once per month, the year round. This will prevent Heartworm Disease and also prevent common intestinal parasites (the Plus!). Administering Heartgard Plus year round is important because it ensures you receive the manufacturer guarantee.
Questions? Want to see where your pet's lab work is run? Take our Clinic Tour! Explore our Links page or surf our online Medical Database for additional information. Curious what other customers are saying? Browse our Reviews! If you are new to the Shakopee area, you will want to take advantage of our New Client Coupon. Whenever you have questions, Our Staff is here to help! Please feel free to Contact Us at 651-452-5156 anytime.
What to do? It is recommended to test all dogs annually for Heartworm Disease. This is a simple blood test, usually with same day results. Here at Marschall Road Animal Hospital, our Heartworm Test also includes a result for Lyme Disease and 2 other common tick transmitted diseases. Also included is a Mini-Profile, which provides results for Kidney and Liver values. This is important because As Pets Age, changes to the health of the Kidneys or Liver can often be detected early.
Prevention is Key. After getting the all-clear on your Heartworm Test, monthly prevention is needed. We recommend using Heartgard Plus once per month, the year round. This will prevent Heartworm Disease and also prevent common intestinal parasites (the Plus!). Administering Heartgard Plus year round is important because it ensures you receive the manufacturer guarantee.
Questions? Want to see where your pet's lab work is run? Take our Clinic Tour! Explore our Links page or surf our online Medical Database for additional information. Curious what other customers are saying? Browse our Reviews! If you are new to the Shakopee area, you will want to take advantage of our New Client Coupon. Whenever you have questions, Our Staff is here to help! Please feel free to Contact Us at 651-452-5156 anytime.
