This year, Dr. Barlow and I have seen an increase in the number of Heartworm positive dogs. We went from zero positive cases for the last 2 years to four positive cases so far this year. (And because of fiscal belt tightening on client's part, we're testing fewer dogs this year. So I suspect the actual number of positives may be higher.)
All 4 dogs were either not on Heartworm preventive medication at all or not on preventive medication consistently.
One dog died from it before treatment could be started.
Heartworm can be successfully treated in most, but not all, cases. The treatment is expensive and any underlying heart and lung damage is permanent.
Dr. Barlow also had one Heartworm positive cat!
So please get your dog tested if it has not been done already.
Please use Heartworm preventive medication year round for dogs (it helps control intestinal worms).
Outdoor cats should be on Heartworm preventive medication from May to November. We typically do not test cats annually for Heartworm since we do not have a highly diagnostic screening for cats.
Sincerely,
Dr. Dutton
