New Ross Veterinary Services

 Treatment with Care and Compassion               

 

 

 

heartworm

 

Heartworms are worms that live inside the heart.  You will not see the worms in the stool.  These worms are spread by mosquitoes, so every dog is at risk, and they do not have to be in contact with other dogs.   Heartworms eventually lead to heart failure, usually in 3-5 years. 

How do I find out if my dog has heartworms?  Testing requires a blood test.   Cost is $23.00, with the results in ten minutes. 

What if the test is positive?  Treatment is recommended.  Cost is $350.00-$500.00 for most dogs. Includes: X-ray, blood work, sedatives, pain medication, treatment injections, four days hospitalization, follow up visits and testing.  Dogs do need to be confined for 6-8 weeks following treatment. 

What if I can't afford treatment?  We can discuss options to keep your dog as comfortable as possible for as long as possible. 

What if the test is negative?  We strongly recommend heartworm prevention.  Even though your dog may not have heartworms now, we want to keep your dog heartworm free.                   Click her for heartworm statistics.  

Prevention Options:

Interceptor

-

Monthly heartworm pill prevents heartworm plus 3 other intestinal worms.

Sentinel

-

Interceptor combined with Program (heartworm prevention plus flea prevention.)  

Revolution

-
Combination monthly flea control and heartworm prevention.  Kills adult fleas and prevents flea eggs from hatching.  Treats and controls ear mites

in dogs and cats and sarcoptic mange and tick infestations in dogs.  Also treats hookworm and roundworm infestation in cats.  This is applied topically, which is great for dogs that don't take pills well. 

© 2006 New Ross Veterinary Services

Web Site Maintained by PMB Enterprises