La canine filariasis, popularly known as the heartworm, is a serious disease of parasitic origin, which mainly affects the heart and pulmonary vessels of dogs. All of this leads to extremely serious symptoms, such as breathing difficulties or severe arrhythmias. Fortunately, medical science has really effective measures to prevent this condition.
This disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, and is caused by a parasite called Unforgiving heartworms. It is a worm that settles in the heart of the animal and lays its larvae inside, where they transform into adult worms called filariae. They can measure 30 cm in length, notably affecting the pulmonary vessels and arteries.
The symptom That causes all this are manifested when the infection has already spread widely, months and even years after being contracted. They are very varied and easily confused with those of other diseases: respiratory problems, apathy, dizziness, fainting, nosebleeds, cough and loss of appetite. At the first sign that our dog presents, we must immediately take him to a veterinary clinic.
Un blood test is usually sufficient for the expert to determine if there is filariasis, although sometimes methods such as X-rays are necessary. If the disease is not yet very advanced, it can be treated with medication or by surgical intervention if the adult worms are already installed in the heart.
We can prevent this parasite from infecting our dog with some measures such as the application of appropriate products, always recommended by the veterinarian. These are sprays, pipettes, and pills, among others. We must exercise these precautions during the hot months (from April to October), although it is advisable to stay alert all year round due to the continuous changes in temperature.
Likewise, the mosquitoes that transmit this disease are usually present especially in humid areas with hot climates, especially near rivers, swamps or lakes. The most affected area in Europe is the Mediterranean basin.