What is the best way to treat heartworms in dogs?

Discovering your dog has heartworms can send a wave of worry through any pet owner. These parasitic worms, transmitted by mosquitoes, can damage the heart and lungs if left untreated, but modern veterinary care offers effective paths to recovery when addressed promptly.​

The first step is always a thorough check-up. Your vet will run blood tests to confirm the presence of heartworms and assess how severe the infestation is. This matters because treatment plans vary—mild cases might need a different approach than those where worms have been present for months. They’ll also check your dog’s overall health, as conditions like kidney issues or anemia can affect which medications are safe to use.​

Most treatment protocols start with stabilizing your dog. If they’re showing symptoms like coughing or fatigue, your vet might prescribe rest and anti-inflammatory drugs to ease discomfort. This calm period helps their body handle the upcoming steps, as a stressed system struggles more with the process of clearing the worms. It’s a good time to limit intense exercise, too—too much activity can strain an already compromised heart.​

The core of treatment typically involves specialized medications designed to kill the heartworms. These drugs work in stages, first targeting younger worms before moving on to adult ones. Your vet will schedule these doses carefully, often with gaps between them to let your dog’s body process each round. During this time, close monitoring is key. Some dogs develop reactions as the worms die off, so watching for fever, loss of appetite, or lethargy lets you catch issues early.​

Preventing reinfection is just as important as treating the current infestation. Once treatment is complete, your vet will recommend a monthly preventive medication. These come in chewable tablets, topical solutions, or injections, and they’re highly effective at stopping new heartworms from taking hold. Sticking to this schedule is crucial—missed doses leave your dog vulnerable, especially in areas where mosquitoes are active year-round.​

It’s worth noting that many regions have guidelines around heartworm prevention, often tied to local mosquito populations. Following these recommendations isn’t just about keeping your dog healthy; it aligns with broader efforts to reduce the spread of the disease in your community. Your vet can share what’s required in your area, from regular testing to mandatory prevention measures.​

Recovery takes time, but most dogs bounce back well with proper care. Watching them regain their energy—chasing a ball again or greeting you at the door with their usual enthusiasm—makes every step of the process worthwhile. With consistent vet care and a commitment to prevention, you can help keep heartworms from ever becoming a problem again.