Anyone that has or ever had a dog knows what heartworms are and how dangerous they can be when not prevented. That is why every pup gets his prevention shot at the vet during his regular check-ups. With the proper care it can be easily prevented, although it has its expenses.
Disturbingly vets have reported occasions of dogs infected with the disease even though they had they prevention shot done.
How can that be? This might be the most common mistakes we as parents do when it comes to prevention and our furry babies safety.
#1 Not getting him tested every year before giving his preventive shot. Only after you are sure he/she is heartworm free, it is safe to continue with the preventive injection.
#2 Focusing their treatment only on particular times of the year. We all know mosquitoes are more present during warmer months but they may be around much longer than we think. Doing so you put your pup at risk and making them vulnerable.
#3 Always keep an eye to your pup’s weight fluctuation. The dose of heartworm prevention injection is based on their weight. If your pup is constantly growing be careful to know exactly how much he weights when you give him the shot. This way he gets the proper amount he needs for his body size.
#4 Stay informed about all treatment options out there. For example heartworm prevention can be done topical or oral, whichever your dog tolerates the most.
#5 Skipping heartworm treatment for indoor pets. Just because they stay inside does not mean they have zero risk of catching the disease. Mosquitoes can survive indoors and live for months.
#6 Make sure you give your pet doses on a regular basis. You should know by know that they have to be done every month. Do not neglect this, is your pup’s life and health we are talking about here.
