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Hearing your vet say, “Your dog has heartworm disease,” is heartbreaking for any pet parent. But don’t panic — you and your furry friend are not alone. Even though heartworm disease is more commonly discussed in the U.S., pet owners in India must also stay alert, especially with rising mosquito populations in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
While heartworm preventives are almost 100% effective, they only work when given regularly without missing a single dose. If your dog isn’t on year-round heartworm prevention or you’ve missed doses, your dog could be at real risk of heartworm disease.
If your dog has been diagnosed, it’s important to understand what it means, how it’s treated, and how you can help your dog recover safely.
Heartworm disease is a potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms (Dirofilaria immitis) that invade a dog’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. It’s transmitted through mosquito bites — a real concern in India where warm, humid climates foster mosquito breeding.
The disease can progress silently. Early infections might not show any symptoms, but damage to the heart and arteries begins within months. Left untreated, these worms can grow up to 30 cm long and severely damage your dog’s vital organs.
Diagnosis usually starts with a simple blood test during a regular vet checkup or if your dog shows signs like coughing, fatigue, or difficulty breathing.
There are two main types of heartworm tests:
If your dog tests positive, your veterinarian might recommend additional tests like chest X-rays or an echocardiogram to assess the extent of the infection and damage.
Important Tip: In India, where mosquitoes are active almost year-round, yearly testing is critical, even if your dog is on preventive medication.
Treating heartworm disease is a multi-step, carefully managed process. Your veterinarian will create a tailored plan based on your dog’s health and the stage of the disease.
Typically, the treatment involves:
Strict rest is crucial during the recovery period. Running, jumping, or playing can cause serious complications because dying worms can block blood flow, leading to life-threatening emergencies.
In extreme cases like caval syndrome (a blockage of blood flow by a mass of worms), surgery might be necessary to physically remove the worms.
Patience and vigilance are key. As a pet parent, you must:
During treatment, even a short burst of excitement can be dangerous. Short leash walks for bathroom breaks are allowed, but otherwise, your dog should be encouraged to rest.
Some Indian pet parents also find it helpful to use natural calming aids like lavender essential oils (used carefully) or vet-recommended supplements.
Prevention is much easier (and cheaper!) than treatment.
Start your dog on year-round preventive medication as advised by your vet. Options available in India include monthly chewable tablets, topical treatments, or annual injections.
Even if your dog has recovered from heartworm disease, they can get reinfected — prior infection does not create immunity.
Pro Tip: Ensure you also reduce mosquito breeding around your home by clearing stagnant water, using mosquito nets, and installing screens.
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Heartworm disease is serious but manageable with early diagnosis, the right treatment, and prevention strategies. With proper care, your dog can make a full recovery and live a healthy, active life.
As Indian pet parents, it’s crucial we stay educated and vigilant, given our climate and mosquito exposure. Speak to your veterinarian today about the best heartworm prevention plan for your furry friend.
Yes, with timely treatment and strict aftercare, most dogs fully recover from heartworm disease.
While not as widely reported, rising mosquito populations in India have increased heartworm risk, especially in urban areas.
Ideally, once every year, even if your dog is on preventive medicine.
Mild cough, lethargy, weight loss, and difficulty breathing are common early signs.
No, heartworm disease cannot be transmitted directly from dogs to humans.
