Preventing heartworm disease should start with a plan developed in partnership with your veterinarian. They can recommend a suitable preventive medication based on your dog's health, age, and lifestyle. The American Heartworm Society advice is to have your dog tested for heartworms once every 12 months and to give a preventive treatment once a month. We encourage you to discuss this advice with your veternarian to develop a plan that is right for you and your pet.
While it's challenging to completely eliminate mosquito exposure, especially if your dog spends time outdoors, you can take measures to reduce it. Here are some ideas on to reduce your pet's chances of getting heartworm disease.
- Give Your Dog Preventive Medication. Although this may not be necessary for all dogs, it is highly recommended for others - depending on their environment and risk profile. Owners should discuss this option with their veterinarian.
- Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours. Avoid walks and outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (usually dawn and dusk).
- Stay Away from Wet Areas. Walk with your pet in dry areas - away from lakes and ponds.
- Secure Your Home. Install or repair window screens, keep doors closed and use air conditioning where possible to keep mosquitos out of the home.
- Eliminate Nesting Grounds. Mosquitos lay eggs near water. Fill tree holes to eliminate standing water, tightly cover outdoor storage containers, once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover or throw out any items that hold water (old tires, buckets, planters, etc).
- Use Pet-Approved Mosquito Repellents Only. If you choose to try mosquito repellent for your pet, make sure it is approved for use on pets.
More Information about Heartworms
For more information on heartworms and your pet, see the American Heartworm Society website.
