Michele

by michele

Hello,

What is the best way to treat heartworm in dogs? Is the treatment safe? I have heard the treatment can be dangerous. The dog is on heartworm mediciation and in 2 months is scheduled for the IV shot to kill the heartworm. The dog has stage 1 heartworm and is 2 years old.

Does the heartworm eventually die with treatment of monthly heartworm medication?

Thanks.


Answer:

Dear Michele

I have to admit my knowledge regarding this is very limited. This parasite is not a risk in Sweden.
Some of my clients do take there dog to Spain, where its present.
My answer is thefore based on "books" and not any practical knowledge.
From what I have been taught is can be risky to treat dogs having adult worms.
But it depends on the amount of worms present and the body damage they have done.
I am actually nor familiar with the term "stage 1 heartworm" but I am confidet your vet is doing the best he can.
Regarding the monthly preventive medication - yes they are killed before they can be at any risk. This is a very efficient and safe treatment.

DVM Per Schonbeck