What Happens If My Dog Tests Positive for Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease is a serious threat to dogs, but early detection is key! That’s why Sugarland Animal Hospital is offering free Heartworm testing and discounted Proheart injections during our current promotion. Let’s talk about what happens if your beloved furry friend tests positive for this disease.

Don’t panic! While treatment is a process, it’s your dog’s chance at a full recovery. Here’s what to expect:

1. Understanding the situation:

• Your vet will discuss your dog’s symptoms (if any) and develop a personalized treatment plan.
• Remember, early treatment is crucial for a successful recovery.

2. Treatment Protocol:

• Sugarland Animal Hospital uses a three-dose protocol, recommended by the American Heartworm Society, with a high success rate and reduced risk of complications compared to older methods.
• The treatment takes around 9 months and requires multiple vet visits.

3. What to expect at each visit:

– Day 0 (diagnosis):

– Start heartworm prevention to prevent further infection.

– Begin a 28-day course of antibiotics to weaken the worms.

– Limit exercise as instructed by your vet.

– Day 28:

– No treatment for this period.

– Continue exercise restriction.

– Day 60:

– Hospital visit:

– Vet examination.

– Medication injection.

– Day-stay monitoring.

– Prednisolone (anti-inflammatory) for 4 weeks at home.

– Strict exercise restriction starts now.

– Days 90 & 91:

– Overnight hospital stay:

– Two vet exams and medication injections.

– Monitoring throughout the stay.

– Another 4 weeks of prednisolone at home.

– Strict exercise restriction continues.

– Day 150:

– Vet checkup:

– May allow gradual return to normal activity.

– Day 365:

– Final heartworm test to confirm successful treatment.

4. Why prevention is key:

• This extensive and expensive treatment can be completely avoided with consistent heartworm prevention.
• We recommend Proheart injections, given once yearly, ensuring protection without forgetting monthly doses.
• In most cases, the cost of treatment equals 10 years of Proheart, making prevention cost-effective in the long run.

5. Take Action Now!

Don’t wait! Schedule a free heartworm test and get a discounted Proheart injection during our current promotion. Call Sugarland Animal Hospital today at 4151 3550 and mention this offer.

Remember, early detection and prevention are essential to keeping your furry friend happy and healthy!