There are more than 250,000 cases of heartworms in dogs diagnosed and reported in the United States each year.  In addition, it is estimated that only 25 percent of dog owners even attempt to stop a disease that is 100 percent preventable. 

In the past, the prevalence of heartworms in Arizona has been low but the incidence is on the increase. 

Heartworms are spread by a bite from an infected mosquito transferring an infective larva to the dog.  The larva goes through a few molting stages, and after 6 to 9 months end up in the right heart area as adults that produce more infective larva to start the cycle all over again. 

Mosquitos are present year-round in Arizona, as their breeding areas are water sources from golf courses, swimming pools (especially the unattended "green pools"), canals, irrigation, and waterfalls from housing developments.  In addition, coyotes can and do act as a constant reservoir for the spread of heartworms. 

Untreated heartworm disease can lead to pulmonary arterial disease, pulmonary thromboembolism, and right sided heart failure, but also cause anemia, kidney disease, and ultimately death.  The dogs generally start with a mild non- productive cough that, with time, gets worse and can progress to coughing up blood. They occasionally will pass out when trying to run.  They can also die suddenly with or without a lot of symptoms. 

Several of the rescued Labs from Arizona Labrador and Giant Breed Rescue have been found to be positive after routine blood work screening was done in the past year and a half.  All were treated successfully, but the process is expensive, the treatments are painful, and the dogs have to be confined to a small area for 6 weeks to allow the dead heartworms to be slowly absorbed by the body.  If their heart rate and blood pressure increases excessively, dead and dying adult heartworms can dislodge, causing emboli in the lungs and a very unpleasant death. 

There are several safe and effective methods of prevention, most of which, when given monthly, also prevent intestinal parasites.  Dogs should be blood tested prior to starting a preventative, and be kept on this prevention year around. 

For more detailed information, visit the CAPC (Companion Animal Parasite Council)  website at  www.capcvet.org. 

In summary, heartworm  infections do occur in Arizona, the number of cases is on the rise,  the treatment is expensive, risky, painful, and if untreated, can result in death.  The good news is that it is completely preventable.

2nd Saturday of every month -  Litchfield Park Petsmart from 11:30 AM to 3:00PM,  located at 1561 N Dysart Rd, Avondale, AZ 85323

3rd Saturday of every month - Mesa Petsmart from 11:00 AM to 3:00PM, located at 1733 S Stapley Drive, Mesa, AZ 85204

Franciscan Renewal Center Adoption Event
Saturday, October 24, 2009
9am to 4pm

KPMG Adoption Event