How do you prevent parasites in dogs
If you’ve found tiny fleas hopping off your puppy’s fur or noticed your adult dog scooting their bottom on the carpet, you know how frustrating—and risky—parasites can be.
What not to do when your dog has heartworms?
When a dog tests positive for heartworms, acting quickly matters—but so does knowing what to avoid. Skipping the vet's treatment plan is never a good idea.
When a dog tests positive for heartworms, acting quickly matters—but so does knowing what to avoid. Skipping the vet’s treatment plan is never a good idea. Those parasites can damage the heart and lungs over time, and home remedies or “quick fixes” you find online rarely work. Stick to the protocol your vet outlines; they’ve tailored it to your dog’s age, health, and how advanced the infection is.
Don’t let them overexert themselves. Even if your pup begs for their usual walk or a game of fetch, too much activity strains their heart, which is already working harder. Keep exercise short and slow—think a gentle stroll to do their business, then back to rest. Save the long hikes and playtime until the vet gives the green light.
Avoid adjusting medications on your own. Heartworm treatments often involve specific drugs with precise doses. Giving more to “speed things up” or skipping a dose because they seem better can lead to serious side effects. And when it’s time to throw away empty pill bottles, check local rules—some areas have strict guidelines for disposing of pet meds to keep wildlife safe.
Don’t skip follow-up tests. Even after the initial treatment, heartworms can leave lasting damage. The vet will want to check blood work and maybe do imaging to make sure their heart and lungs are healing. Missing these appointments makes it harder to catch problems early, which could mean more treatment down the line.
Resist the urge to skimp on prevention once they’re clear. Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes, and even treated dogs can get reinfected. Talk to your vet about year-round prevention that fits your area—whether it’s pills, topical treatments, or injections. Many places require proof of prevention if you board your dog or take them to parks, so staying consistent keeps everyone compliant.
And don’t ignore their mood. Some dogs get quiet or withdrawn during treatment, which is normal, but sudden changes—like refusing food, heavy panting at rest, or lethargy that doesn’t lift—need a vet’s attention right away. Your dog can’t tell you when something hurts, so trusting your gut and picking up on little cues goes a long way.
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