How dogs get infected with heartworm

The lifecycle of canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) begins when a mosquito bites a dog that has an infection. Adult female worms in the dog produce first-stage larvae called microfilariae. These larvae (L1) are picked up by mosquitoes that take a blood meal from the dog. Once L1 larvae are inside the mosquito they must undergo two molts in order to be infectious to another dog. The L3 larvae in the mosquito can be transferred to another dog, starting a new infection. Dogs can develop adult heartworms (and therefore heartworm disease) 6 months after being inoculated with infectious larvae.

Treating heartworm disease
At CRVC we take an integrated approach to the treatment of disease. Integrative medicine combines conventional diagnoses and treatments with traditional or complementary therapies that promote healing, support normal physiology, and restore good health. The purpose of integrating conventional or allopathic medicine with natural medicine is to improve patient well-being and ultimately bring about a positive patient outcome or cure.

1. Provide a low-stress environment for inpatients being treated for heartworm disease
2. Place an intravenous catheter to maintain hydration, and administer vitamins and antioxidants
3. Administer Melarsomine according to the label
4. Monitor the patient for potential complications as the adult worms die in the circulation

Heartworm prevention
Is there a natural alternative to monthly heartworm medications? We take an integrated approach to heartworm prevention as well as treatment. The guidelines we have established depend on the individual's risk of infection.

1. Dogs in the Northern States do not need heartworm prevention year around, though we have heard from clients who were sold on this idea. Mosquitoes transmit the infective larvae (microfilaria); if there are no mosquitoes, there is no transmission.

2. Test all dogs every spring for heartworm antigen (a blood test). If the test is positive see your veterinarian for treatment of heartworm infection.

3. Dogs with an indoor lifestyle have less risk of mosquito exposure than sporting and working dogs who spend much of their time outdoors.

4. Insect repellents may help reduce the number of mosquito bites and therefore the transmission of heartworm infection to the dog. Like people, horses and dogs exposed to mosquitoes or other biting insects would appreciate an application of a natural bug repellent when the pest pressure is high, i.e., evenings and during peak outbreaks.

5. Exclude flying insects from indoor areas with window screens. Provide good air movement around outdoor pens or runs.

6. Animals with a healthy immune system and good diet are less susceptible to infections than homeless strays and debilitated pets.

7. Dogs at high risk of infection should take a heartworm preventive medication during the mosquito season (available by prescription).

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