As pet owners, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure the health and well-being of our furry friends. One of the most important preventative measures we can take is heartworm prevention. Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms carried by an infected mosquito that will bite your pet and transmit a parasite that will live in the heart and lungs of pets, most commonly dogs and cats.
Georgia is a state with a high prevalence of heartworm disease, making it even more important for pet owners to take preventative measures. According to the American Heartworm Society, Georgia ranks 5th in the United States for the highest incidence of heartworm disease in dogs. This means that there is a greater risk for pets to contract this disease in Georgia than in many other states.
Fortunately, there are several preventative options available to pet owners, including Heartgard, Proheart, Sentinel, Bravecto Plus, and Simparica Trio just to mention a few. Each of these options works to prevent heartworm disease, but they differ in their method of delivery and other factors.
Heartgard is a chewable tablet that is given to dogs once a month. It works by killing the immature form of the heartworm parasite, preventing them from developing into adults that can cause damage to the heart and lungs. Proheart is an injectable preventative that is given by a veterinarian every 6 or 12 months. Sentinel is a monthly tablet that not only prevents heartworm disease but also controls flea populations and treats and controls certain intestinal parasites. Bravecto Plus is a topical medication that is applied to the skin of cats every 2 months and provides protection against heartworms, fleas, and ticks. Simparica Trio is a chewable tablet for dogs that provides protection against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and certain intestinal parasites.
When choosing a preventative for your pet, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine which option is best suited for your pet's individual needs. Factors such as age, weight, and health history can all play a role in determining the best preventative for your pet.
At Town & Country West Veterinary Clinic, we offer competitive prices on heartworm preventatives, including the ones mentioned above. We also offer manufacturer rebates and warranties that may not be available when purchasing from online stores. By purchasing from our clinic, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are receiving a quality product from a trusted source.
In addition to preventative measures, it's also important to have your pet tested for heartworm disease annually. This can help detect the disease in its early stages, making it easier to treat and manage.
In conclusion, heartworm prevention is a crucial aspect of pet healthcare, especially in states like Georgia where the incidence of heartworm disease is high. By consulting with your veterinarian and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come. At Town & Country West Veterinary Clinic, we are here to help you with all of your pet healthcare needs, including heartworm prevention. Call us at (770) 528-6363 if you would like to schedule a consultation today.
Town & Country West Veterinary Clinic
1770 Powder Springs Rd SW
Marietta, GA 30064
(770) 528-6363