Heartworm Prevention

If you're a pet owner, then you know that heartworm prevention is crucial. But did you know that at Magruder Tabb Animal Clinic in Yorktown, VA, there are several different ways to prevent heartworms? Let's dig into heartworms, how they affect your pets, and how to prevent heartworms from troubling your pets.

Heartworm Prevention

What is a Heartworm?

A heartworm is a parasitic worm that lives in the heart and lungs of dogs, cats, and other animals. The worms are transmitted through mosquito bites, and they can cause serious health problems, including heart failure and death.

How do Pets Get Heartworms?

Pets get heartworms through mosquito bites. Some mosquitoes carry heartworm larvae, and when they bite an animal, they deposit the larvae into the animal's bloodstream. The larvae mature into worms and travel to the heart, where they live and reproduce.

Effects of Heartworms on Pets

Heartworm disease can be fatal to pets. The worms cause damage to the heart and lungs, and they can block blood flow. This can lead to heart failure, lung disease, and death.

How to Prevent Heartworms

There are several different methods of heartworm prevention, including:

1. Preventative Medications

There are several preventative medications available that can protect your pet from heartworms. You must give these medications every month, and they are available from your veterinarian.

2. Mosquito Repellents

Mosquito repellents can help keep mosquitoes away from your pet, and they can also help prevent heartworm disease. There are several different mosquito repellents available, including natural and chemical repellents.

3. Environmental Control

You can also help to prevent heartworm disease by controlling the environment in which your pet lives. This includes removing standing water from your property and keeping your pet indoors during peak mosquito activity times.

4. Regular Vet Check-Ups

Finally, it's important to take your pet to a veterinarian for regular check-ups. Our veterinarian can test your pet for heartworm disease, and also provide you with information on how to prevent heartworm disease.

Book Your Pet an Appointment Today!

If you're concerned about heartworm disease or would like more information on heartworm prevention, contact us today at (757) 541-2708 to book an appointment. At Magruder Tabb Animal Clinic in Yorktown, VA, we will be happy to answer your questions and help you keep your pet healthy and safe.

Location

Hours of Operation

Monday

7:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday

7:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday

7:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday

7:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday

7:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday

8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Sunday

Closed

Monday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sunday
Closed