It's a time to focus on preventing and controlling heartworm disease in animals, especially dogs and cats, by emphasizing the importance of annual testing and year-round preventative medication. Heartworm disease, a potentially fatal illness, is transmitted by mosquitos.
Here's why April is a crucial time for heartworm awareness:
-
Mosquito Season: April marks the start of mosquito season in many areas, increasing the risk of heartworm transmission.
-
Testing and Prevention: April is a good time for pet owners to get their dogs tested for heartworm and to ensure they are on a year-round prevention program.
- Early Detection: Early detection and treatment of heartworm disease can be more effective than waiting until the disease progresses.
Key Takeaways for Pet Parent's:
-
Heartworm disease is preventable: With regular testing and year-round preventative medication, heartworm disease can be avoided.
-
Mosquitoes are the transmitters: Heartworm larvae are transmitted to animals through mosquito bites.
-
Prevention is crucial: Administering preventative medications regularly, as prescribed by a veterinarian, is the most effective way to protect pets from heartworm.
-
Year-round protection: Even in areas with less intense mosquito seasons, it's recommended to maintain year-round heartworm prevention.