Protect Your Dog and Cat from Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease can be dangerous and potentially fatal to dogs and cats. It is spread by mosquitoes and caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart and lungs. Many animals who have heartworm disease show no symptoms until the disease is severe. Dogs with the disease may become lethargic, have a cough, and have difficulty breathing. They also may retain fluid in their hearts and lungs because of heart failure. Symptoms in cats might include vomiting, cough, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.

Heartworm disease is preventable. It is treatable in dogs during early symptoms, and medicines can help with symptoms in cats. Our staff at Ashworth Road Animal Hospital has provided residents of West Des Moines, Windsor Heights, Clive, and Urbandale with parasite prevention services for many years.

Tips to Protect Your Pet from Heartworms

Heartworm disease can be prevented through the use of oral or topical products. Injections are also available. Many of these products are administered monthly all year round at home. Our veterinarians can help choose the best product for you and your pet. Before you begin a preventative, our veterinary staff will conduct appropriate tests to make sure your pet is heartworm free.

Other Parasites

Other parasites that can infect pets include ticks and intestinal parasites such as bookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Tick prevention and control products are available to be used year-round. Our staff can also help you choose a tick-prevention product, as well as test for and treat intestinal parasites in your pet.

Pet Care Services in West Des Moines, Windsor Heights, Clive, and Urbandale

Regular examinations are important in preventing ticks and heartworms. Our veterinary staff is also knowledgeable about the newest heartworm treatment techniques. Call Ashworth Road Animal Hospital today at (515) 225-1807 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.