How to treat heartworms in dogs at home?

Finding out your pup might have heartworms is enough to make any dog owner’s stomach drop. Those tiny parasites, carried by mosquitoes, can wreak havoc on a dog’s heart and lungs, and ignoring them isn’t an option. But when the vet mentions treatment, you might wonder if there’s anything you can do at home to support your furry friend through it. Let’s be clear: heartworms in dogs aren’t something to tackle with DIY remedies alone. The heavy lifting—like targeted medications to kill the worms—needs a vet’s expertise. But there are ways to help your dog heal once a treatment plan is in place.​

First, you’ll need a confirmed diagnosis. A vet will run tests, maybe a blood check or ultrasound, to see how bad the infestation is. That step’s non-negotiable—guessing won’t cut it, and wrong moves could make things worse. Once they prescribe meds, sticking to the schedule is key. Some treatments for heartworms in dogs need to be given at specific intervals, and missing a dose might let the worms linger. Keep a calendar, set phone alerts, whatever works—your pup’s counting on you.​

At home, comfort becomes your top job. Dogs going through heartworm treatment often feel sluggish, so skip the long walks or rough play. A cozy bed in a quiet corner, away from the chaos of kids or other pets, can do wonders. Offer small, frequent meals if their appetite is off—something easy on the stomach, like boiled chicken and rice. Hydration matters too; keep fresh water nearby, and if they’re not drinking much, try a little low-sodium broth to entice them.​

Preventing reinfection is part of the process, too. Mosquitoes spread heartworms, so clear standing water around your yard where bugs breed. Talk to your vet about preventive meds—they’re way easier than treating an active infection. Even during treatment, keeping those pests away helps your dog avoid picking up new worms while they’re recovering.​

Never mix home remedies with prescribed treatments without asking your vet. Some herbal supplements or “natural” cures floating around online can interact badly with the meds your dog needs. What works for one pup might not work for another, especially if they have other health issues. When in doubt, pick up the phone—your vet’s there to help you navigate this.​

Watching your dog fight through heartworm treatment isn’t easy, but staying consistent with their care makes all the difference. Those little steps—giving meds on time, keeping them calm, checking in with the vet—add up to a faster recovery. And once they’re back to chasing squirrels and begging for treats? You’ll know every bit of effort was worth it.​

Heartworm treatment for dogs takes patience, but with the right balance of professional care and at-home support, your pup can bounce back. And don’t forget—prevention is always better than treatment. Keep up with those vet visits, stay on top of preventive meds, and you’ll lower the chances of going through this again.