Your puppy could have heartworm larvae circulating in his blood but the adult heart worms take 4-6 months to develop in the heart. I usually start puppies on a monthly heartworm preventative when they are around 12 wks old.
What age can puppies get heartworms?
The risk of puppies and kittens getting heartworm disease is equal to that of adult pets. The American Heartworm Society recommends that puppies and kittens be started on a heartworm preventive as early as the product label allows, and no later than 8 weeks of age.
Can a 8 week old puppy get heartworms?
The American Heartworm Society recommends starting a puppy on heartworm prevention no later than eight weeks of age. ... Your veterinarian will be able to help you determine which heartworm medicine is safest for your puppy's age and weight.
What are the first signs of heartworms in puppies?
Early-stage symptoms of heartworm diseasePersistent cough. Unlike a regular cough or a kennel cough, which is strong and sporadic, a heartworm- related cough is dry and persistent. ... Lethargy. ... Weight loss. ... Difficulty breathing. ... Bulging ribs.5 Signs Your Dog May Have Heartworms - PetPro Connect
Can puppies be treated for heartworms?
The American Heartworm Society recommends that you start heartworm prevention for puppies at 8 weeks of age and keep them on it year-round. Heartworm disease has been diagnosed in all 50 states, and there is growing concern about resistance to some preventatives—mostly due to inconsistent dosing by owners.
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