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How to Strengthen Your Pets Fight Against Heartworms
Empower yourself with knowledge about effective heartworm prevention that could potentially save your dog's life.Analysis by Dr. Karen Shaw Becker
How to Strengthen Your Pets Fight Against Heartworms
Empower yourself with knowledge about effective heartworm prevention that could potentially save your dog's life.
STORY AT-A-GLANCE
- Heartworm infection in dogs is serious; it’s crucially important that pet parents understand their treatment options and the steps involved in each
- The standard protocol per the American Heartworm Society involves Immiticide, a fast-kill approach; an alternative protocol using ivermectin plus doxycycline is a slow-kill approach that is less costly, and equally effective
- Pet parents should work closely with their veterinary team to determine the most appropriate course of action based on the level of infection and the health of their dogs, as well as financial considerations
- Dogs with heartworm disease must be kept inactive (i.e., confined to a crate or other small space) during treatment; it’s important to understand what your pet can and can’t do while undergoing therapy
- Entirely holistic heartworm treatment protocols are typically ineffective; if you’re interested in trying such an approach, you should absolutely talk with a very knowledgeable integrative or holistic veterinarian before making a decision