Heartworm disease is a serious illness that affects dogs (and some other animals.) It is caused by a parasite transmitted through mosquito bites.

When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it picks up the parasite and then spreads it to other animals when it bites them.

Once inside a dog's body, the heartworm parasite grows and multiplies, eventually causing damage to the heart, lungs, and other organs.  Symptoms can include coughing, lethargy, weight loss, and difficulty breathing.   

If left untreated, heartworm disease can be fatal.  

Heartworm disease can be treated through two different methods: 

1) The slow kill method involves using a monthly heartworm preventative medication, such as ivermectin, to kill off the heartworm larvae over a period of several months.  This method is typically used for dogs that have a mild to moderate heartworm infection, and it can take up to two years for the heartworms to be completely eliminated.  During this time, the dog will need to be monitored closely by a veterinarian, and exercise may need to be restricted to prevent further damage to the heart and lungs.

2) The fast kill method involves a more aggressive approach.  This method typically involves using a combination of medications, including an arsenic-based drug, to kill off the adult heartworms.  The treatment usually takes several months and may require hospitalization for the dog.  While this method can be effective in eliminating the heartworms more quickly, it also carries a higher risk of complications and may not be appropriate for dogs with severe heartworm disease or other health issues.

Both methods require strict adherence to follow-up testing and prevention measures to ensure that the heartworms do not return. We work closely with our veterinarian to help us determine the best course of treatment for our dogs based on severity of the heartworm infection and their overall health.

All dogs will have started doxycycline and have a proheart 12 injection. They will be available to travel after 21 days from the start of their treatment when they are microfilaria negative. This helps eliminate the spread of heartworm.

Adopting or fostering a heartworm-positive dog can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, but ultimately, the decision to bring home a heartworm-positive dog should be based on your individual circumstances and your ability to provide the best possible care for the dog. 

Before making a decision, it's important to discuss the dog's medical history and treatment options with our staff and then deeply consider your ability to provide the necessary care and support. You may also want to consider the potential financial costs of treatment and ongoing heartworm prevention measures.

Depending on the severity of infection, treatment may involve several months of medication as well as restrictions on exercise and activity to prevent further damage to the heart and lungs. There is a risk the dog may not survive the treatment or may develop complications afterward but with proper care, this risk is low.

That being said, many dogs with heartworm disease are successfully treated and go on to live happy, healthy lives with their new families. By adopting or fostering a heartworm-positive dog, you are providing a loving home and a second chance at life for a dog most in need of a safe and stable environment.