Summer is almost over, and what comes next?
The Rainy Season! It will bring us cooler weather; with it are a lot of problems that we have to be ready for.
With the Rainy Season, not only will we be wetter, but we will have a lot more mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are considered to be one of the more dangerous insects in the world for humans. They spread dengue, malaria, Chikungunya, West Nile virus and many other diseases that are detrimental to our health.
For dogs (and for some instances cats), mosquitoes also spread Dirofilaria immitis, the common name is Heartworm. This is considered as one of the deadliest parasites of dogs.
What Heartworm Does To your Dogs
Heartworm causes a lot of problems for dogs. Minor cases may cause your pet to fatigue easily, cough and appear unthrifty. Worse cases may cause heart and liver problems which may actually kill your dog if left unchecked.
What to do? Many years ago, the only way to prevent your pet from getting heartworm infection was to keep them from getting bitten by mosquitoes. In an old veterinary book, it was recommended that they be placed in a mosquito net (kulambo), which is very impractical.
It used to be that dogs were recommended to be treated for Heartworm every six months.
This is both risky and expensive.
Heartworm Preventatives Now Better
Nowadays, there are safer and more practical options. Initially, monthly shots from a medicine used for livestock is recommended. Next, there were daily tablets given to prevent Heartworm infection. Later, monthly meds were given as preventives.
These days, monthly medicine that not only prevents Heartworm infection, but would also keep your pet from getting other parasites such as ticks and fleas are available. Even a once a year injection can prevent Heartworm for your dog.
How about you? If you are a responsible pet parent you will choose to go to an expert veterinarian for your pet needs.
Contact us at (02) 8896-6386 / 8896-2860 / 0908-896-7113 so we can set an appointment.
Do take note that Makati Dog and Cat Hospital serves you and your pet from 8AM to 3PM, Mondays to Saturdays.
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Enjoy peace of mind,
Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC