The common questions about heart worm are often related to the
species affected by heart worms in addition to the dogs. One
should know that in addition to dogs, the cat, fox, wolf,
horse, sea lion etc. are also affected. Can this be cured
or not? Yes. This can be treated.
What is the drug used often for the prevention of heart worm in
dogs? Ivermectin is the drug used often to have preventive
actions for these heart worms. Dogs affected reveal constant
coughing, panting and dullness in many occasions.
What will be the size of the worms? In the case of the females, it is about twenty-seven centimeters and in the case of males, it is about seventeen centimeters in length. Is there any vector involve in
the transmission of the disease? Yes. Mosquitoes often get associated as vectors in which the early development of larvae of heart worms occur in them.
Is the prophylaxis meant only for heart worms or others also?
The prophylaxis is meant not only for the heart worms but also
for the hook worms, whip worms, and round worms. What is the
infective type of larvae that is associated with the transmission
of these heart worms? The third stage larva that is transmitted by
the mosquito bites.
This occurs through out the world. In some areas, the incidences
are less in colder months in which the mosquito breeding will not
be there and may be dormant during these periods. What is the name of
the drug used for therapy and prevention? Ivermectin and
milbemycin oxime may be used for both purposes. Ivermectin is
available in injection form and oral form.
Additionally, the forms for external application are also
available. The cost factor needs to be worked out for all these
treatments. What is the frequency of drug used for prophylaxis?
One month before the mosquito season and up to two months after the
mosquito season, ivermectin or milbemycin oxime may be given
once monthly for the prophylaxis. Diethylcarbamazine may be used
for therapy purpose.