As winter descends upon New England in full force, more and more dog owners ask us if we recommend continuing heartworm prevention through the winter months. The short answer is yes.The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention, and we agree.
Do you give dog heartworm medicine in the winter?
That's one reason veterinarians often recommend that pets receive heartworm prevention medication all year long. Although there are a fewer number of mosquitoes in the winter, there is still a risk that an animal could contract heartworms if the owner stops giving medication during this season.
Do dogs need flea and heartworm medicine in the winter?
Yes. Though many species of ticks and fleas are slowed down or dormant during the winter, certain areas of the United States are not cold enough to truly kill these parasites and stop their activity. Because ticks and fleas can carry diseases that could harm your dog, it's best to keep them protected all year long.
Do you need to give heartworm in the winter?
Yes, your dog needs heartworm medicine year-round. Just because mosquitoes may hibernate in the winter doesn't mean they're gone. And just because you live in a colder state doesn't mean your dog is safe either.
Should dogs take heartworm meds year round?
Because of this and the fact that many people travel with pets back and forth to warmer areas of the country, most veterinarians and the American Veterinary Heartworm Society now recommend year-round heartworm prevention for dogs in most areas of the country.
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