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Heartworm is a serious disease that is potentially fatal. Some dogs owners are concerned about the toxicity of the repellents and treatments, but are effective natural treatments available?

Annual Pet Parasite Forecasts – to see the annual map of cases around the country.

Dog owners must be mindful of the dangers that their dogs may face while outdoors. One such danger is heartworm disease, which can seriously affect dogs of all ages and breeds. People often ask me what I do for heartworm prevention. I live in a heartworm-free state – #knockonwood – and focus primarily on flea and tick prevention. While heartworm isn't a concern at this time, that doesn't mean it'll always be this way. This article will delve into heartworms, their life cycle, common symptoms, and prevalence across the United States. I'll also share both natural and veterinary treatments.

What are Heartworms?

Heartworms (scientifically known as Dirofilaria immitis) are parasitic worms that primarily affect dogs and can occasionally infect cats. These spaghetti-like worms reside in affected animals' heart, lungs, and blood vessels. If left untreated, heartworm disease can lead to severe organ damage, heart failure, and even death.

How Dogs Contract Heartworms

Heartworms are primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito feeds on an infected animal, it ingests microscopic heartworm larvae. These larvae develop and mature within the mosquito for about two weeks. The mosquito then passes on the larvae to another animal during its next blood meal, infecting the new host.

After entering a dog's body, the larvae continue to grow and migrate through different tissues for several months. They eventually reach the heart and blood vessels, where they mature into adult worms. The adult female heartworms can grow up to 12 inches in length and produce thousands of larvae (microfilariae) that circulate in the animal's bloodstream. Mosquitoes pick up these microfilariae during a blood meal, continuing the transmission cycle.

Symptoms of Heartworm Disease

Heartworm symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some common signs to watch for include…

  • fatigue
  • coughing
  • difficulty breathing
  • weight loss
  • reduced appetite
  • a swollen abdomen

As the disease progresses, dogs may also experience fainting episodes, pale gums, and a reluctance to exercise or play.

Top 10 Heartworm States in the US

While heartworms can be found in every state, areas with warm, humid climates, such as the Southeast, Gulf Coast, and Mississippi River Valley, tend to have more cases due to the increased mosquito populations. The top ten states are:

  1. Alabama
  2. Arkansas
  3. Georgia
  4. Louisiana
  5. Mississippi
  6. North Carolina
  7. Oklahoma
  8. South Carolina
  9. Tennessee
  10. Texas

Natural Treatments for Heartworms

It's important to note that natural heartworm treatments should be approached with caution, as their effectiveness may vary. It is always recommended to consult with a veterinarian before using any alternative treatments. Here are three natural options to consider:

  • Herbal Remedies: Some herbs, such as black walnut, garlic, and wormwood, are believed to have natural anti-parasitic properties. However, their effectiveness in eliminating heartworms is not scientifically proven.
    • Black Walnut Hull works to cleanse a dog's system, including the digestive system and bloodstream.  It kills the heartworm parasite before it has time to grow to maturity.
    • Garlic turns our dogs into natural insect repellents, including mosquitoes; however, there is no evidence that it is effective in treating heartworm.
    • Wormwood is a bitter-tasting herb that has been mentioned as a natural heartworm treatment and should be used under the guidance of an experienced veterinarian. However, there is a concern that the dosage that would be high enough to kill the heartworms is also toxic to dogs; and a safe dosage isn't effective in treating heartworm.
  • Neem Oil: Derived from the neem tree, neem oil is thought to have insecticidal properties and may help repel mosquitoes. However, it should not be used as a standalone heartworm treatment.
  • Homeopathic Treatments: Some homeopathic remedies, like Arsenicum album or cina, are occasionally used to support heartworm treatment. However, their effectiveness remains largely anecdotal.

The best “natural treatment” appears to be prevention. Several natural products on the market repel fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. However, using these products doesn't guarantee a dog won't contract heartworm.

Mosquito Repellents for Dogs

The following are natural mosquito repellents for dogs. There isn't a guarantee that these will be effective; however, I currently use a few of the following products and have found them to be effective in preventing fleas. I don't live in a state with heartworm and cannot speak to the effectiveness of the following repellent in preventing heartworm.

Springtime Supplements Bug Off Repellent – I use the garlic granules, which I sprinkle into my dogs' meals in the spring, summer, and fall months. It's a myth that garlic is toxic to dogs. While large doses aren't recommended (nor feeding to puppies, pregnant dogs, or dogs with anemic conditions), garlic isn't toxic to dogs.

Wondercide – This product is a plant-based flea and tick spray that is effective and easy to use. It can be used on pets and around the home to kill, repel, and prevent fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. It is a safer and healthier alternative to traditional flea and tick protection products. The spray is made with natural essential oils, which give off a fresh scent. It is safe for dogs and cats of all ages when used according to the instructions provided. Wondercide is available in four different scents: Peppermint, Cedarwood, Lemongrass, and Rosemary.

Kin+Kind – a range of vet-formulated products that are made using plant-based ingredients. Kin+Kind products are designed to keep your pets happy and healthy while being mindful of the environmental impact. The brand carefully selects every ingredient, including essential oils, which are veterinarian-approved, to ensure safe concentrations for your pet. You can use these products confidently, knowing they are safe when used as directed. Kin+Kind offers two refreshing scents – lemongrass and lavender.”

Veterinary Treatment for Heartworm Disease

Veterinarians offer several treatment options for heartworm disease. The most common approach involves a series of injections that kill the adult worms over several weeks. During this time, dogs must be closely monitored and kept calm to minimize complications. Vets may also prescribe medications to manage secondary symptoms and prevent further heartworm infections.

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects dogs across the United States. While natural treatments may be considered, they should be used under professional guidance. Consulting with a holistic veterinarian is vital to ensure the best course of action, as they can provide appropriate treatments based on an individual dog's condition. Regular heartworm prevention, including monthly preventive medications prescribed by a veterinarian and annual testing, appear to be the best defense against this silent threat in states with the highest heartworm cases.

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