Dogs are the natural host for heartworms, which means the worms can mature, reproduce, and thrive inside your dog’s body. Left untreated, a dog can harbor hundreds of worms, causing lasting damage to the heart, lungs, and arteries — damage that can persist long after the worms are gone. In dogs, heartworm disease can become severe and expensive to treat, which is why the American Heartworm Society recommends year-round prevention and regular testing.

Prevention is safer, easier, and far less stressful than treating an established infection. When dogs do become infected, treatment typically involves a structured protocol using melarsomine, the standard adulticide, combined with strict exercise restriction and supportive care to manage the process safely. Treatment can take several months and requires patience, but the outcome is worth it — and our team will monitor your dog closely throughout.

Cats need heartworm prevention too. Although cats are not the “classic” heartworm patient, they can absolutely be infected — and even a small number of worms can cause serious illness. Heartworm disease in cats can be dangerous, difficult to diagnose, and frustrating to manage. It often mimics asthma or allergic bronchitis, making it easy to miss entirely.
Even more important: there is no approved drug therapy to eliminate heartworm infection in cats the way there is in dogs. That single fact makes prevention not just valuable — it makes it essential. Prevention is the only protection.