Heartworm Treatment: What Are Your Options?

by Kate Barrington

Published: April 20th, 2015

heartworm treatment what are your options

By the time you see the symptoms of this potentially dangerous disease, it’s already too late. Don’t procrastinate – get the 411 on heartworm treatments available for your dog.

Heartworm is a dangerous and deadly disease that is transmitted to dogs and cats by mosquitos. This disease progresses slowly and, unfortunately, most infected animals do not show symptoms of the disease for a full six months after the infection when the disease has progressed to the final stages. Heartworm is easy to prevent by simply having your dog tested annually and by giving him monthly heartworm preventive pills. If you fail to protect your dog and he gets heartworm, your treatment options are few and, depending on the severity of the disease, they may not even be effective.

Related: How Do Dogs Get Heartworm?

Symptoms of Heartworm

As it has already been mentioned, dogs that contract heartworm typically don’t show any clinical signs until the disease has already progressed. Why? Because the moment of infection occurs when a heartworm-carrying mosquito transfers infective larvae into the dog’s blood stream. It takes about 6 months for those larvae to travel through the dog’s blood stream to the heart and lungs where they develop into adults and then begin reproducing. It isn’t until the heartworms begin reproducing that a blood test will pick up the infection – it is also at this point that the dog may begin showing symptoms.

Symptoms of heartworm are related to the clogging of the heart and its major blood vessels. As a result of this clogging, blood flow to other major organs is compromised and those organs may eventually begin to fail. Some of the most common signs of heartworm include a dry cough, difficulty breathing, weakness or listlessness, unexplained weight loss, and loss of exercise tolerance. In very severe cases, the dog’s legs and abdomen may swell from excess fluid and the dog may go into congestive heart failure.

Options for Heartworm Treatment

If your dog tests positive for heartworm there is a certain protocol you should follow. Your first step is to stabilize your dog – this may involve treating some of the symptoms of the disease that have begun to manifest. You should also restrict your dog’s level of exercise because physical exertion will only increase the rate at which the heartworm causes damage to the dog’s already damaged lungs and heart. After your dog has been stabilized your veterinarian will begin treatment. The only approved treatment for heartworm is an arsenic-based drug called Immiticide. Given in two or three injections, this drug will kill the adult heartworms residing in the blood vessels of the heart.

Though Immiticide is the fastest and most effective method of treatment, there is another option. For less severe infections, it may be adequate to treat the dog with a combination of Ivermectin and Doxycycline. This method works more slowly than Immiticide, serving to weaken the heartworm so it cannot reproduce. This treatment method can last for up to 33 weeks, whereas the Immiticide method can work quickly and your dog may test negative for heartworm after six months. Each case of heartworm is different, however, so it will be up to you and your veterinarian to choose the option that is right for your dog.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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Horse Housing Explained - What Are the Best Options for Your Horse

Before you get a horse, you need to make sure that you’ve prepared everything they will need. There’s a lot to consider, but one of the first things is where your horse will be housed once they get to you. Horses are powerful and large, sure, but even they will need protection from the elements to thrive. But what exactly is ideal for horses? What type of shelter is needed, and what constitutes housing that’s too small or too large? Let’s answer these, and other questions that are connected with horse housing. What Kind of Shelter Do Horses Need?Of course, there are numerous factors that need to be taken into account when you are planning horse housing. Things like the type of horse, their activity levels, daily chores, the environment and climate you live in, and the locality, are all important to consider. First and foremost, however, it is worth mentioning that not all horse owners choose to build housing on their estates. After all, some do not have that possibility. These owners might opt for horse boarding. These can be established specialty stables or local farms that offer accommodation for horses. This, however, is an added expense that simply doesn’t make horse ownership viable for some people.If you have the ability to build your own horse accommodation, here is what you need to know. Horses need protection from the elements, for the most part. These include extreme cold and hot temperatures, snow, hail, storms, wind, and so on. No one would like to be exposed to the elements, horses included. These animals also need a safe and dry place to eat. Also important to consider is the environment you live in. If you are in a rural locality with plenty of nature around and free space, horse housing might be needed as protection from predators that could roam about at night. Then again, if you live in a more urbanized locality, you need to consider all the free land you have at your disposal, as well as all the needed permits for the construction of a horse shelter. Horses that are a part of special shows, competitions, or races will likely require more elaborate housing of the highest quality, with plenty of added facilities and equipment to keep them always in their prime. However, if you own a strong draft horse who helps you complete various tasks around the property, you might opt for a classic stable with lots of room and suitable protection from the elements. Most horses, however, can do well with simple housing, with standard dimensions, and without any bells and whistles.For example, the dimensions of a stall for a large draft horse are around 16’ by 16’, while the stall for a riding horse is 12’ by 12’. Smaller horses will require roughly 10’ by 10’ for their stall. Remember that the stall is just one part of the barn: you will have to provide areas for storing feed, tools, equipment, and entry and exit ways. A proper barn will have to be well-insulated, with plenty of windows for natural lighting and ventilation, and protected from all sides. Of course, there is also the option of outdoor housing. This is great for more temperate climates, large pastures, enclosed properties, and seasons of the year when the weather is nicer. They differ from the classic barn: they are usually three-sided and can be simpler or more elaborate. Outdoor barns are also less expensive for construction and provide easier access for cleaning. Either way, a horse must have adequate protection. It’s up to you to make the choice depending on the type of horse you own. Gone are the days when horses roamed in herds on open pastures. Today, they are best kept safe under a sturdy roof and in a cozy stall. Just remember, even though their stable or barn might be comfy and spacious, they still require plenty of time outside of it. Be sure to regularly offer your horse some quality exercise and relaxation on open pastures and in nature. After all, everybody needs some fresh air and sunlight – ideally on a daily basis!  

What Are Your Legal Options If Your Dog Bites Someone?

It’s a horrible situation – your dog bit someone. Do you have any legal options? Read this article to learn more. Regardless of the size, age, sex, or breed of your dog, they’re all capable of biting when they feel that circumstances dictate. And while we may be convinced our pets would only act out under extreme provocation, does the law also see your dog as a vulnerable victim who acted in self defence? Well, yes and no. You see, there are a number of mitigating circumstances under which a dog may not necessarily be considered the aggressor he is being portrayed. They can include factors such as: Was the dog being provoked by the victim?Was the victim trespassing onto private property at the time of the incident?Did the victim understand the dog to be fearful or volatile and still attempt to pet or engage with him? These are all questions that insurance companies across North America raise when claims land on their desk and they need to determine culpability. And these claims can go beyond biting or nipping, they can include knocking an individual over (in play or other interaction) as well as chasing them and causing them to fall. So, lets look at what is legally considered provocation? While you might assume it includes intentional teasing or taunting of a dog, it can be much more mundane – and unintentional. Trying to pat a dog that is eating, accidentally stepping on their tail, trying to break up a fight between dogs, or simply a stranger walking up to and attempting to pet the animal. Any of these defences might result in you and your pet being deemed not at fault. But these defences are not applicable in all states, nor are they a sure-proof defence. Its generally expected that owners be in control of their dog at all times in order to prevent this type of unforeseen circumstance. In the US, where there are an estimated 89 million dogs and somewhere in the neighborhood of 800,000 bites each year, the onus lands more heavily on the owner. In certain states, the owner is liable whether or not they considered the animal to be dangerous and also regardless of what type of measures they took to keep their pet under control. And it extends beyond the owner to anyone who happens to be immediately responsible for the dog – including sitters and dog walkers. The culpability however, is on a sliding scale with those owners who showed an effort to control or restrict access to their pooch, seeing damages brought on in a civil suit, diminished accordingly. So, what do you do when your dog bites someone? Immediately take control of the situation. If you’re at home, put your dog in another room, if outside put him in the house, and if at a leash-free park, put him in your vehicle.Offer first-aid to the victim – be it simply rinsing the wound with bottled water, helping them sit down, or applying pressure to a wound. If serious, or just looks really nasty, call 911.If the wound is small (and has / has not broken the skin), offer your personal contact information, collect theirs and confirm your pet’s medical history with them – specifically that his vaccines are up to date.Gather names and contact details from any witnesses.Take pictures of the wound.Stay calm, even if you feel the injured party provoked your pet or didn’t heed your warnings. Defensiveness may exacerbate the situation.Consider taking a proactive approach by contacting animal control yourself. Share the information, witness details, and confirm your pet’s immunization record.Advise your veterinarian that they may be contacted regarding the situation.Contact your dog’s kennel, walker, house-sitter and anyone else who has regular interaction with him, for a statement regarding his usual behavior and whether biting would be atypical for him.If the wound was serious, or if the victim implied a lawsuit, consider reaching out to a lawyer to advise on next steps. If your pooch is known to be aggressive or even just high-strung and nervous when in unfamiliar setting, the potential for biting is there. If he doesn’t get along with other dogs, you run the risk of another owner trying to intervene if they feel their dog is in danger – and bites can happen. If your pooch is small but territorial, bites can happen. Never assume your dog doesn’t have it in him. Take precautions including muzzles, signage, fences, and verbal warnings when out walking.

Warning Signs: Heartworm Symptoms In Dogs

Pet parents need to know the heartworm symptoms in dogs in order to catch and treat this potentially fatal disease in time. Heartworm is a disease caused by a parasitic worm that lives in the tissues and arteries of the heart in infected dogs. This disease is incredibly dangerous and, unfortunately, it is still fairly common even though preventive measures are inexpensive and simple to implement. It is also the case that dogs infected with heartworm typically do not exhibit symptoms until the disease has progressed and the heartworm has begun reproducing. At this point, treatment can be expensive and the condition itself will likely be painful for the dog. To protect your dog from the pain and suffering from these disease, take the time to learn the basics about heartworm symptoms in dogs. Related: Heartworm Treatment: What Are Your Options? Transmission of Heartworm A dog infected with heartworm cannot pass the disease directly to another dog – heartworm can only be transmitted by mosquitoes. When a mosquito bites a dog that is infected with heartworm, it takes in some of the microfilariae – the baby heartworms – and they develop inside the body of the mosquito over a period of 14 days into infective larvae. Then, when the mosquito bites another dog, it transmits some of those larvae into the dog’s bloodstream. What many pet owners do not realize is that when an infected mosquito bites an unprotected dog, the dog doesn’t immediately become infected with heartworm. It takes about six months for the infective larvae to develop into adults and to start reproducing. It is only when the adult heartworms take up residence in the heart and lungs then begin producing when the dog is likely to exhibit symptoms. Related: How Do Dogs Get Heartworm? Heartworm Symptoms in Dogs Heartworm symptoms in dogs can be easy to confuse with the symptoms of other diseases, which is part of what makes these disease so dangerous. It is also possible for some dogs to not show any symptoms at all until the disease has progressed into the final stages where it will be difficult to treat. Some symptoms of heartworm may include labored breathing, vomiting, coughing, unexplained weight loss, lethargy, and exercise intolerance. Dogs that are highly active and those with other medical problems are more likely to show symptoms than dogs that are otherwise healthy. As the disease progresses, infected dogs may develop more severe symptoms such as abdominal swelling due to fluid accumulation or heart failure. Some dogs even develop a condition called caval syndrome caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart. If surgery isn’t performed to correct the blockage, the dog has a low chance of survival at this point. Symptoms of caval syndrome include the sudden onset of labored breathing, bloody or coffee-colored urine, and pale gums. Prevention of Heartworm By now you should understand the seriousness of this deadly disease. Though heartworm is incredibly deadly, it is actually easy to prevent. All you have to do is get your vet to prescribe a monthly heartworm preventive that you give your dog every 30 days. In order to be started on a preventive program your dog will first need to be tested for heartworm. Only puppies under six months of age can be started on a preventive program without testing but they must be tested within another 6 months of starting the program. Heartworm is a dangerous disease but it is also highly preventable. At the first signs of heartworm symptoms in dogs, take him to the vet immediately to be treated. And to keep your dog healthy, be sure to speak to your vet about a heartworm preventive program.

Genetic Test For Herding Breeds Can Prevent Ivermectin Toxicity From H

Heartworm medication can prevent a needless death – but in some herding breeds, the cure can kill. There’s a simple genetic test that can help determine if pets are vulnerable to what in most cases is a safe, commonly-used drug. If you’ve ever been to a hospital emergency room, you already know the first question they ask you is if you are allergic to any drugs. While my response of “not sure, let’s try some” is rarely met with laughter, the truth is that this mini prompt can save your life if you are in fact allergic to some of the more common antibiotics on the market. But what do you do if you’re a dog and no one is asking the question? Related: Heartworm Treatment: What Are Your Options? That’s what happened to a 4-year old Australian Shepherd named Bristol when he became deathly ill from a safe, commonly-used treatment to prevent heartworm. When he was rushed in to his local veterinary clinic last September, he was barely responsive and experiencing persistent seizures. His owner had googled his symptoms and suspected he was suffering from severe invermectin toxity. Invermectin is the active ingredient in some of the heartworm prevention meds and when it crosses the blood-brain barrier it can cause neurological damage. While the message here is not to arbitrarily stop meds that are proven to protect our pets from deadly heartworms, it does show the importance of acting swiftly when your pooch is seriously ailing. Related: How Do Dogs Get Heartworm? Bristol required immediate, aggressive medical intervention including a ventilator to keep her alive and an MRI brain scan to rule out other potential causes. She was then transferred to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University where it was a full 10 days before she was able to breathe on her own and three weeks before she regained consciousness. Recovery was slow and required her to re-learn how to walk using splints and a wheelchair. It was a month before Bristol was back to her old self and able to walk, eat and drink on her. So with millions of family pets being treated with heartworm meds each year, what the heck went wrong here? Apparently, herding breeds like Bristol have a genetic mutation that makes them sensitive to invermectin and instances of toxicity can happen when dogs are exposed to higher dose versions of the drug. How would they be exposed to higher than normal doses? It seems stronger doses of invermectin are used in livestock. While at a herding lesson, Bristol felt peckish and decided to sample from sheep feces from an animal that had recently been dewormed. Bingo-Bango, one sick little dog. Although the products we use to prevent heartworm are typically safe and effective, many white-footed herding breed dogs like Bristol have a genetic mutation that makes them sensitive to it and several other drugs, including some common chemotherapy drugs. In those instances, alternative medications can be used. Dr. Terri O’Toole, D.V.M., one of a team of critical care specialists overseeing Bristol’s care recommends that owners of herding breed dogs undergo a simple genetic test to determine if they have a mutation in the multidrug resistance (MDR1) gene. “Getting the gene mutation test would enable them to know for sure if they could safely use some of these other drugs,” said O’Toole. “The kits are readily available through veterinarians, and they include a small brush that you use to take a swab of the inside of the dog’s mouth.” The swab is sent to a testing lab at Washington State University and the results could save your pooch’s life! [Source: Science Daily]

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

If you are a dog owner in the United States, you have likely already seen the news reports about the mystery illness responsible for the deaths of several dogs, prompting veterinary professionals to caution pet parents about taking their pets out to public spaces. But we may finally be able to spot the light at the end of the tunnel… Dr. David Needle, pathology section chief at the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, reported that scientists have finally identified the cause of the illness. While this doesn’t mean that life for our dogs can return to normal immediately, it does mean that they are one step closer to finding a cure and moving past this nightmare. The research article has yet to be published, but the team is sharing their initial findings to provide hope for pet parents and the veterinary community. The pathogen responsible for the mystery respiratory illness is described as “a funky bacterium.” “It’s smaller than a normal bacterium in its size and in the size of its genome,” explained Needle. “Long story short, it’s a weird bacterium that can be tough to find and sequence.” Searching for the cause of this illness wasn’t easy for researchers. Initially, there were no known bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, meaning they were searching blind. However, after testing 30 samples from New Hampshire, genetic material from an atypical bacterial species was discovered. The next step in understanding the cause of the illness and working towards a cure (and possible preventative) is to compare these findings to samples from dogs in other states to verify that it is, in fact, the same pathogen in all reported instances. States with possible cases of the disease include: CaliforniaColoradoFlorida Georgia IdahoIllinois IndianaMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireOregonPennsylvania Rhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne challenge faced by veterinarians is the fact there is no test to confirm that all reported cases are, in fact, the same illness. What Are the Warning Signs?Common symptoms resemble respiratory infections like canine influenza and kennel cough, conditions usually seen in higher numbers at this time of year. Luckily for the human members of our family, there are currently no reports of the illness being transferred to humans. Veterinarians recommend watching out for the following symptoms: Coughing or sneezing WheezingDifficulty breathingNasal or eye dischargeDehydration Loss of appetite Weight loss FeverLethargyHow Can You Keep Your Dog Safe? Until a cure has been identified, dog parents are encouraged to focus on preventative measures. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current, protecting them against known respiratory problems. Avoid public spaces like dog parks, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments where dogs may be exposed to the illness. If you must go to a public space, steer clear of shared food and water dishes. Your dog will be just as happy to spend this time playing with you as they would with another dog!If you notice any signs of respiratory trouble or illness, don’t panic. Contact your veterinarian to share your concerns and make an appointment.

Study Finds Pets Didn't Make People Happier During the Pandemic

Would you say that your pet help you feel better during the pandemic? Countless pet parents, myself included, would say they experienced less stress and anxiety during lockdown thanks to their four-legged companions. However, a new study led by researchers from Michigan State University suggests otherwise. Researchers couldn’t find a reliable association between pet ownership and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though owners claimed pets improved their lives. The pandemic was extremely stressful for everyone. The research team from Michigan State University theorized that the pandemic created ideal conditions to determine how much happiness and comfort pets actually provide to their families. The study, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, evaluated 767 people on three separate occasions in May 2020. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, looking at several indicators of well-being. They also asked owners in an open-ended question to think about the role of pets. Unsurprisingly, pet owners reported their pets made them happy. Owners claimed pets help them feel more positive emotions and provide companionship and affection, but also expressed worry about their pet’s well-being and reported their pets interfered with working remotely. But when researchers compared the happiness of pet owners to levels seen in non-pet owners they made a surprising discovery. Shockingly, the data showed no difference in the well-being of pet owners and non-pet owners over time. The research team explained that it did not matter what type of pet people owned, how many pets they had, or how close owners were with their pets. The personalities of the owners weren’t a factor either. “People say pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, in a university release. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely to be as transformative as people think,” added Chopik. The research team also explored several other potential reasons as to why there was no difference in the happiness levels of pet owners and non-pet owners. The most likely reason might be that non-pet owners have found ways to fill their lives with activities and interests that make them as happy as owning a pet would. “Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and maybe costly, given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,”  said Chopik. Another study, involving 4,237 people, beginning at the start of the pandemic and ending in December 2021, had similar findings. Although owners grew closer to their pets, especially dogs, during the pandemic, that didn’t stave off stress.In fact, the lowest stress levels were seen in non-pet owners. When you think about it, these results kind of make sense - pet owners had an additional mouth to feed during the lockdown and had limited opportunities to take their dogs out for a walk or play session. The results of these studies are surprising, to say the least. I was positive that I was happier than my poochless friends during the lockdown, but guess that wasn’t the case. After thinking about this a bit more, I realized that maybe we shouldn’t expect so much from our four-legged companions. Yes, there are many benefits to owning a pet, and pets can make us happy, but ultimately happiness depends on ourselves. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Dogs Trained to Detect Ancient Remains Expedite Search for Graves

Canada’s recent discovery of hundreds of tiny unmarked graves attributed to the residential school system has created not only cross-country outrage but also a determination to locate and repatriate the remains of all children who left home to attend these schools but never returned.Within a few weeks, the number of unmarked graves throughout Canada had quickly grown to over 10,000 and the ability to locate and identify additional sites (that would date back decades), had become almost impossible. Particularly since many of the schools had since been razed and pinpointing potential burial areas leaned heavily toward guesswork.The search had to be done respectfully – meaning without the use of large, excavation equipment – however, the need to cover a vast range of land in a timely manner was a challenge.That’s when the search teams decided to bring in the dogs.Part of the Ottawa Valley Search and Rescue Dog Association, German Shepherds, Recce and Taz are proficient in detecting older, archeological remains with drill work that has included using older cemeteries as their training ground. In fact, Historic Human Remains Detection Dogs have been used throughout North America and Europe to identify human remains in archaeological sites that date back hundreds of years… and longer. These dogs can pick up on the much lower scent levels that come from teeth and bones found in ancient graves… and some are even explicitly trained to detect cremated remains where no bones or teeth remain.This switch from bulldozers to the canine duo is a change welcomed by the area’s former residential school students who feel that because dogs have always been part of the Indigenous culture, they offer a natural, more appropriate approach to finding the missing children.According to Archaeology Professor Adrian Burke, dogs make a great option because they are non-invasive. Although it’s not an exact science – they can’t pinpoint an individual grave - they can hone in on a location and this saves time and the need for random digging. Once dogs flag a site, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is used to confirm what lies beneath.By adding Recce and Taz to the search teams, it’s estimated the time needed to cover a couple of acres can be reduced from a few weeks to just a couple of days.While the process is still slow and time-consuming, Indigenous residents confirm it’s about the children’s families understanding what happened to their little ones, being able to bring them home for appropriate burial, and ultimately experiencing a sense of closure and justice.

Are Candles Safe for Pets?

Final Thoughts: Candles and PetsWhether you want to include a candle in your holiday décor while keeping your pet safe or simply burn a candle to mask those pesky “pet smells,” there ARE options available to enjoy the gentle glow of a candle without creating unnecessary risks for your companion.Choose a pet-safe candle that is made from plant-based wax, avoiding those scented with potentially toxic essential oils like peppermint and pine oils. Set your candle up on a secure surface out of their reach and supervise your pet the entire time it burns. When you’re done, ensure your candle is stored safely where your pet can’t reach it.These simple precautions may be the difference between a festive holiday scene and a trip to your local emergency vet!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Muzzle?

Introducing a new tool to your dog can feel like uncharted territory. While some dogs will readily accept whatever is thrown their way, others will become stressed or anxious when presented with something new. Unfortunately, if you are in a position where a muzzle is necessary for the safety of your dog or others around you, forgoing a tool because your dog appears to be uninterested in it isn’t an option. So, what do you do? How do you train your dog to wear a muzzle? This guide will dig into the importance of conditioning when planning to muzzle your dog. This includes explaining what conditioning is, walking you through the process step-by-step, and sharing some helpful tips to set you up for success. What is Muzzle Conditioning? Before expecting your dog to wear their muzzle, it is recommended that you take the time to focus on muzzle training, also referred to as muzzle conditioning. This is the process of introducing the muzzle alongside positive rewards. If each time your dog sees or interacts with the muzzle, they get “good things,” it will create a positive association. Over time, they will not only tolerate the muzzle but happily accept it. Why? They recognize that wearing their muzzle means they will receive good things like verbal praise, pets, and their favorite treats. How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Get Used to a Muzzle? There is no one guaranteed timeline when working on muzzle conditioning. While some dogs will quickly take to the muzzle, adjusting in just a few days, others will take longer. Some factors that can impact this include your dog’s personality, trainability, previous experience (positive or negative) with a muzzle, and their trust/bond with you as the person introducing this tool to them. It’s important to keep in mind that the time it takes does NOT mean you are doing better or failing at your training efforts. We have three dogs, all of which have been muzzle-trained. While two of our dogs took to the muzzle relatively quickly, Lucifer’s nerves and anxiety made the process more challenging. This doesn’t mean it was impossible. With time, patience, and consistency, he is now the dog that is most comfortable in a muzzle out of the three. We just had to move at his pace.

What Causes Heartworm in Dogs?

One of the most dangerous threats to the health of dogs around the world is the dreaded  heartworm. Most people are not even aware of the illness, until it is too late for  treatment and the damage has already been done. In fact, many dog owners are not at all familiar with heartworm, how it occurs, how it progresses, and what causes it in the first place. That’s why we’ll go into all of the details every dog owner should know about heartworm. What Is Heartworm Disease in Dogs and What Causes It?Heartworm disease in dogs is caused by a parasitic worm, called Dirofilaria Immitis. These are most simply put, heartworm larvae, and are carried within mosquitos. And that’s how they are transmitted – through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito, carrying a heartworm larva, bites a dog, it immediately transmits the larvae onto the dog’s skin. This is how the heartworm enters the bloodstream, through the teeny tiny mosquito bite wound – yes, that is how incredibly small these larvae are. After this, over the course of several months, the deposited larvae mature and grow into adult worms that nest and reside within your dog’s heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Once they become adults and enter the animal’s system, these worms can really cause substantial damage to the lungs, heart, and even other organs. This damage is then manifested through visible symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, difficulty breathing, coughing, and – in the most extreme cases – heart failure. Heartworm needs to be treated. Otherwise, this disease can be fatal to dogs. Of course, your most common precaution is through regular use of heartworm preventatives, as well as minimizing exposure to mosquitoes or mosquito-dense areas. This can help protect your doggo from contracting a potentially deadly disease. Preventing And Treating Heartworm Disease in DogsThis being said, we need to take into account that heartworm disease won’t be common in all parts of the world equally. The disease is prevalent in parts of the world with warm or humid climates, and high populations of mosquitoes. This is not an exclusive rule, however, and the disease can occur in all parts of the world, including temperate zones. As a diligent dog owner, you should get familiar with your region and if needed, take precautionary measures. If you live in an area where there are a lot of mosquitoes, you can invest in things like mosquito repellents for dogs. 

Amazing Wiener Dog Gives Birth to a Record Breaking Puppy Litter

Puppy litters can certainly be large, but in the case of this brave Wiener dog mom, everyone was taken by surprise! This extraordinary female dachshund brought to the world a litter of no less than 11 puppies – there is definitely potential for a world record here. Winnie, a three-year-old female dachshund, was seemingly a normal pregnant dog, and nobody expected her litter to be this big. Normally, this breed of dog delivers between one and six puppies, but Winnie delivered nearly double that number in September.

Cat Chattering: What Is It and What Does It Mean?

Cats communicate with each other and their humans in a variety of ways through vocalizations and body language. While you may be able to figure out what your cat is saying when they meow or hiss, you might be at a loss for an explanation when you see them chatter for the first time, especially if you’ve never seen cats do this before.What does it mean when cats chatter? Check out the information below to learn all about it so you’ll be able to figure out what your kitty is thinking and feeling the next time you see them exhibit this odd behavior.What Is Chattering in Cats?Chattering usually happens when a kitty sees something that they want to get their paws on. Many times, they’ll be looking out the window when a prey animal, like a chipmunk or bird, comes into view. Or, if your kitty spends time in a catio or outdoor enclosure, they might start chattering when they see small wildlife. As soon as your cat sees their intended prey, they may be ready to go on the hunt, and might express this feeling by chattering.This behavior doesn’t only happen when your kitty sees wildlife, though. It can also happen when you’re using a toy to play with them. The movement of the toy can get them excited and ready to pounce on their “prey,” and they might chatter as a result.Once you know what cat chattering looks like, you’ll be able to recognize it right away. But if you’ve never seen it before, it can be described simply as your cat making quick movements with their jaw, showing their teeth while staring intently at their target. Sometimes, no sounds will come out, but other times, they’ll make chirping sounds or even little meows. Some people even describe chattering as “ekekek”.To see what it looks like, here’s a compilation of cats chattering:

How Do I Choose the Best Muzzle for My Dog?

With the news of the recent American Bully XL ban in the UK, conversations around dog muzzles have been popping up all over social media. The growing discussion has opened the door for dog owners in the United States to consider the benefits of using a muzzle for their own dogs for many reasons, including scavenging, reactivity, and even short-term use for veterinary and grooming appointments. But with so many different styles of muzzle on the market, how do you choose the best muzzle for your dog? We have you covered! In this guide, we will discuss the different muzzle types available, what each type is best suited for, and the proper fit of a dog muzzle. Plus, I will share which muzzle we currently use with our reactive dog, Lucifer, and why. Let’s get started… Things to Consider When Shopping for a Muzzle for Your Dog When selecting a muzzle for your dog, there is no singular “best option” that will work for every dog and situation. On one hand, this can be frustrating as it leaves you feeling overwhelmed navigating the wide assortment of options. On the other hand, it means you can purchase a muzzle uniquely suited for your dog’s needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when making your decision: MaterialThere are several materials to consider when shopping for a muzzle, including metal, plastic, rubber, vinyl, leather, Biothane, fabric, silicone, and more. To determine the best option for your dog, there are a few critical deciding factors: Do you need a muzzle that can prevent a determined dog from biting? Will your dog be wearing the muzzle outdoors in the elements? Is weight a factor for your dog? Does your dog engage in “muzzle punching” when wearing a muzzle (ramming into people with the muzzle)? Will your dog likely shove the muzzle into the dirt while trying to smell the ground? It is important to note that most muzzles are not considered “bite-proof.” This means they shouldn’t be relied on to prevent a bite from occurring. If you are muzzling as a safety precaution due to a bite risk, the best options are vinyl or wire basket muzzles. Ease of Use Like harnesses and collars, some dogs make fastening a muzzle easy, while others can make the process a challenge. This doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike the muzzle or aren’t properly conditioned to the muzzle. For example, if our boy Lucifer is overly excited about going somewhere, he sometimes gets the zoomies. He usually will stand still to let us buckle his muzzle, but it’s hard to control the zoomies when they hit! A muzzle with a quick-release buckle will be your best option if that sounds familiar. This is faster to secure than a traditional threaded buckle. Airflow One primary concern for those considering muzzling their dogs is the airflow that they will offer, and for good reason! This is especially important if your dog is going to be active while wearing the muzzle. Wire basket muzzles are often a favorite for high-energy dogs, allowing for uninterrupted airflow and making it easy for your dog to drink while wearing it. In comparison, leather and Biothane muzzles, especially those designed to prevent scavengers from being able to pick up “goodies” on their walks, generally limit airflow. Carefully consider your dog’s lifestyle and the situations where a muzzle may be needed.

Dog-Killing Flatworm Discovered in California

Fleas and ticks aren’t the only parasites that dog owners have to fear in southern California this summer. Scientists from the University of California, Riverside, are warning dog owners to keep their pooches out of the water this summer after they have discovered a potentially deadly parasite.A deadly flatworm species that has previously only existed in Texas and other Golf Coast states, has made its way to the west coast and is now present in the portion of the Colorado River that runs through California. The worm, Heterobilharzia americana, is a flatworm commonly known as the liver fluke. The parasite can cause canine schistosomiasis, an illness that affects the liver and intestine of dogs. Although treatment options are available once the dog becomes infected, they aren’t always effective leaving vets no other option than to euthanize the dog. “Dogs can die from this infection, so we are hoping to raise public awareness that it’s there,” said Adler Dillman, a nematology professor at the University of California, Riverside. “If you’re swimming in the Colorado River with them, your pets are in peril.” After learning about several cases of infection in local dogs, professor Dillman and his research team headed to Blythe, a border town in Riverside County. All of the sick dogs have spent time there, swimming in the river.Since snails are responsible for transmitting the infection, researchers collected more than 2,000 along the banks of the Colorado River. The team used DNA testing to identify the snails and the flatworm.The team was astonished to find not one, but two species of snail that can carry the parasite!“We actually found two species of snail that can support H. americana in the river in Blythe and we found both snails actively shedding this worm,” said Dillman, according to UC Riverside News. “Not only was it a surprise to find H. americana, we also didn’t know that the snails were present here.”The flatworm first makes its way into the snail's body, traveling through its system. Once transformed, it moves out to find a mammal host to infect. Without a host, the parasite can’t survive more than 24 hours on its own. Dogs and raccoons are particularly susceptible to becoming infected after coming into contact with water, whether from drinking or swimming in it. The worm gets inside the veins of the intestinal lining, where it develops into an adult and mates. The presence of adults in the veins isn’t as problematic as the eggs that get into the lungs, spleen, liver, and heart. The dog’s immune system reacts by forming clusters of cells, called granulomas. In time, the organ tissues stop functioning.It may take several months for a dog to show any signs of the infection. Symptoms start slowly and include loss of appetite, and progress to vomiting, diarrhea, profound weight loss, and signs of liver disease. “If your dog has these symptoms after swimming in the Colorado River, it’s a good precaution to ask your veterinarian for a simple fecal test,” said Emily Beeler, a veterinarian with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “Treatment typically involves use of multiple medications and close monitoring of the dog by a veterinarian.”Although potentially deadly for our canine companions, this parasite can’t cause the same issues in humans. “ It can cause swimmers itch, a red rash where it penetrates human skin. But it’s not able to cause an infection,” Dillman explained.Steer clear of bodies of water that could contain infected snails to prevent your pooch from catching flatworms. If your pooch can’t resist taking a dip, monitor them for symptoms of flatworm infection in the weeks afterward. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?

Sometimes, dogs can behave straight out quirky. The range of their weird behaviors varies from chasing their tail and scooting on their but, to “pawing” or “digging” food, which sort of looks like they’re burying their kibble but they’re not really doing anything. Have you ever seen your pooch trying to fake bury his food by pawing at it? Don’t worry, the behavior might look odd at the very least, but it’s not a reason for concern. Here’s what dogs that dig, bury, or paw their food are trying to tell you with this behavior.Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?Dogs may exhibit pawing or digging behavior around their food bowl for various reasons, and the interpretation can depend on the individual dog. By closely observing your dog's specific actions and considering these factors, you may gain a better understanding of why they engage in pawing behavior. Keep in mind that individual differences among dogs can lead to variations in behavior, and what holds true for one dog may not necessarily apply to another. Still, there are some common explanations that hold true for most situations when “pawing” is in question.Too Much Food Served:In the wild, dogs might use their paws to cover or bury their food to protect it from other animals or to save it for later. This behavior could be a residual instinct from their ancestors – if they eat a bit and then paw at their bowl before leaving the meal, it means that they are trying to stash the surplus away for later. Try downsizing their portions to see if the behavior goes away. Scent Marking: Dogs have scent glands in their paws, and pawing at the food bowl might be a way for them to mark the area with their scent. This could be a territorial behavior and might be seen in households where there are several dogs present. Excitement or Anticipation: Dogs might get excited about mealtime, and pawing at the bowl could be a way of expressing anticipation or eagerness for their food. This is especially true if they are eagerly pawing the ground even before the food has been served. These dogs can often be voracious eaters as well, so to prevent them from snarfing up their food in seconds, try utilizing a  slow feeder for dogs to promote a more appropriate pace of eating and prevent bloat and other digestive issues due to lack of chewing and fast eating.

What Should I Include in a Pet First Aid Kit?

As loving pet parents, we do everything possible to keep our furry companions safe and healthy. However, life is unpredictable, and accidents happen, so we must be prepared for unexpected emergencies. This includes ensuring we have a fully stocked, pet-friendly first aid kit available. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items you should have on hand to care for your pet in those unforeseen moments. From basic cuts and scrapes to more severe injuries, you’ll be prepared to act as your pet’s first line of defense when it matters most. Can You Use a Human First Aid Kit on Dogs and Cats? Yes, sort of. Most of the items included in a human first aid kit can be used to treat your pet in the case of an emergency. You may be wondering – if they can use the same supplies, why do I need a first aid kit specifically for pets? Some items you won’t find in a human first aid kit may be necessary depending on your pet’s injury or ailment. These could address a problem that only a dog or cat could experience, or they may involve finding alternatives for human products that are unsafe for our pets, like human medications. What Human First Aid Products Can Be Used on Dogs and Cats? Most standard items in your first aid kit can be used on dogs and cats. For example, bandages, gauze pads, ice packs, and medical tape are all suitable for pets. They are the exact same items often included in both human and pet first aid kits. Tools like scissors, latex gloves, and tweezers will also be helpful when performing first aid on a pet. This means that if you currently have a standard human first aid kit at home, you are already well on your way to being prepared to take care of your pet in an emergency. To update your human first aid kit and make it suitable for pets, you will just need to add a few important items:

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