National Heartworm Awareness Month

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

April is National Heartworm Awareness Month!  As the weather warms up this spring, it's important to take steps to protect your pets against heartworm disease.

Heartworm disease is transmitted through infected mosquitoes that then bite your pet.  Both indoor and outdoor pets are at risk of heartworm disease.

Here are a few signs to be on the lookout for this spring.

Signs of Heartworm Disease:

• Coughing
• Asthma-Like Attacks
• Periodic Vomiting
• Lack of Appetite
• Weight Loss
• Difficulty Walking
• Fainting
• Seizures

Visit the American Heartworm Society website to learn more about the signs of Heartworm Disease and what you can do to protect your pet.  You can also contact one of our veterinary offices if you suspect that your pet is suffering from heartworm disease or you are looking to take steps to prevent it this spring.

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Keeping Your Pet Calm During Heartworm Treatment

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Image Source: Flickr/hebdromadaires

Is your pet undergoing treatment for heartworm?  As restless as your pet may get, exercise and activities that would elevate your dog’s heart rate are off limits.  Here are a few tips to help your dog stay quiet and calm during treatment.

• Stay Indoors – It is a good idea to keep your pet indoors or in a kennel through most of the treatment.  When your pet needs to go outside, keep the leash on so that a sudden encounter doesn’t send him running.
• Companionship – Make sure that you replace activity with affection.  Keep your pet close by at home and give them extra attention.
• Quiet Playtime – Making mealtimes last longer with feeding toys or puzzle feeders can let your dog quietly play for hour without increasing his or her blood pressure.  You can also try safe chew toys to help keep them from getting bored.
• Training – Learning new tricks is a great way to eliminate boredom and keep the body rested.  Try a game of stationary catch or train your pet to follow quiet commands.

Keeping your pet calm is essential to killing the heartworms and restoring your dog’s health.  Visit the American Heartworm Society to learn more about how to battle boredom.  If you have any questions about heartworm treatment, contact Bregman Vet Group.  We are happy to answer any questions you have regarding your pet’s health.