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Common Myths About Heartworms Debunked

Believing the myths about heartworm disease is potentially fatal for your dog.

Heartworm disease is very serious, and if left untreated, it can be fatal. Luckily it is completely preventable! That being said, there are many dangerous myths out there surrounding heartworms that lull pet owners into a false sense of security. Being undereducated about heartworm disease is dangerous for your dog, which is why our veterinary clinic in Levittown has come up with the following list of common myths about heartworms:

Myth #1 – Heartworm disease only affects dogs in the south.

Although it’s true that dogs in the south are diagnosed with heartworm disease more often, dogs in all 50 states have been diagnosed with heartworm disease and that includes Hawaii and Alaska.

Myth #2 – A dog that is up to date on vaccines doesn’t need a heartworm preventative.

Dogs can be vaccinated against many different things, but unfortunately, heartworm disease isn’t one of them. The best (and only) way to keep your dog protected from heartworm disease is by getting them tested annually and giving them their monthly preventative heartworm medication.

Myth #3 – Dogs are only at risk for heartworm disease in the spring and summer.

It’s true that many mosquitos will die off during the cold months of the fall and winter, they can come back quickly during rainy warm periods. All it takes is one mosquito bite, so why risk it?

These are just a few of the many dangerous myths out there surrounding heartworm disease. If you would like to learn more, please stay tuned for our next blog!

 

 

 

 

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