Protecting pets against Heartworm disease

Pets can contract Heartworm disease by a single mosquito bite. As most in the borderland know, summer rains leave behind puddles of standing water. Those puddles quickly become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which is why the Humane Society of El Paso is urging pet owners to take all precautions in protecting pets.

“The mosquito bite can cause the the heart worms to infect the dog and it can actually kill them,” Andrea Macias, with the Humane Society of El Paso, said.

According to Macias, infestation can happen to any pet. Parasites can be transmitted through mosquito bites and grow in the pet’s blood stream. If it is not treated, it can clog major arteries and vital organs.

Once infected pets may show symptoms as early as 6 months, but it in some cases, it can take years. Symptoms include coughing, vomitting and loss of appetite. Macias urges pet owners to be proactive and get dogs on medication and keep them on it all year.

“It’s much easier to prevent it form ever happening, than it is to treat it. Treatment can take about three months and it’s very expensive and not every dog makes it, because if you don’t catch it, then they may not have a chance,” Macias said.

Macias say pet owners in the borderland make the mistake of giving dogs medication only during the rainy season, during the summer. The American Heartworm Association recommends giving dogs medication throughout the entire year.

Another easy tip is to clear puddles in yards to avoid attracting mosquitoes.

“Try to get rid of any standing water in your backyard or anywhere where the dogs may be,” Macias said.

She says it’s a simple chore that can save your pet’s life.

“It seems to be a lot of people don’t think it’s a such a big deal and it really is,” Macias said.

Macias says Heartworm pills can be given to dogs under six months of age, older animals must be screened before starting medication.