Once the heartworms have matured, they inhabit the lungs and veins of the host, causing severe blockage and leading to the following symptoms: Difficulty breathing. Along with coughing, breathing problems mimicking that of an asthma attack may occur in your dog. . Bulging ribs.
Are there long term effects of heartworm in dogs?
Dogs with heartworm disease can live high-quality lives as long as they are given appropriate care. After completing treatment and following your veterinarian's recommenda- tions on heartworm disease testing and prevention, the chances of any long-term effects are very low.
What are the side effects of heartworm treatment in dogs?
Twenty-six dogs (52%) experienced minor complications, such as injection site reactions, gastrointestinal signs (vomiting, diarrhea, inappetance), and behavioral changes (lethargy, depression) during or after heartworm treatment.
What are the final stages of heartworms in dogs?
Not all dogs with heartworm disease develop into stage 4. But if it is left untreated, heartworm disease will progress and damage the dog's heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys, eventually causing death.
Is heartworm medication harmful to dogs?
Given at the proper doses and under the supervision of a veterinarian, ivermectin is safe for most dogs and is very effective in treating and preventing a number of parasites. However, a dog with the mutation who ingests the drug can have a severe, life-threatening reaction called ivermectin toxicity.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
Can heartworms make a dog's stomach swell?Can heartworms cause stomach problems?
