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Heartworm University

A Complete Interactive Continuing Education Program on Canine and Feline Heartworm Disease - Hear the latest information on controversial topics such as "slow kill" and macrocyclic lactone lack of efficacy investigations. Don't miss the opportunity to hear about the latest findings and participate in this highly acclaimed, interactive and informative presentation!

Heartworm University comprises 4-6 hours of practical clinical information in a lively interactive format. Our expert faculty will present a comprehensive program including the latest information on heartworm disease available.  An advanced computer-interactive response system enables the presenters to address specific audience concerns. Course content features a discussion of controversial issues while integrating essential disease pathophysiology, diagnostics, screening and testing, treatment protocols, prevention strategies, and pet owner counseling.


Upcoming Heartworm University Events

Heartworm University provides practical clinical information in an interactive format that enables presenters to address specific audience concerns and questions. Course content incorporates essential disease pathophysiology, diagnostics, screening and testing, treatment protocols, prevention strategies, and pet owner counseling, while also covering issues such as heartworm incidence trends and resistance.

Heartworm University will be presented at the Southwest Veterinary Symposium in San Antonio, TX on Sunday, September 24. 

An opportunity for a virtual presentation of Heartworm University is in the works for December 3! Find additional details and register here.

Heartworm Basics

 

 

Heartworms in Dogs  Heartworms in Cats Heartworms in Ferrets

What is heartworm disease?

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease in pets in the United States and many other parts of the world. It is caused by foot-long worms (heartworms) that live in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels of affected pets, causing severe lung disease, heart failure and damage to other organs in the body. Heartworm disease affects dogs, cats and ferrets, but heartworms also live in other mammal species, including wolves, coyotes, foxes, sea lions and—in rare instances—humans. Because wild species such as foxes and coyotes live in proximity to many urban areas, they are considered important carriers of the disease.

Dogs. The dog is a natural host for heartworms, which means that heartworms that live inside the dog mature into adults, mate and produce offspring. If untreated, their numbers can increase, and dogs have been known to harbor several hundred worms in their bodies. Heartworm disease causes lasting damage to the heart, lungs and arteries, and can affect the dog’s health and quality of life long after the parasites are gone. For this reason, heartworm prevention for dogs is by far the best option, and treatment—when needed—should be administered as early in the course of the disease as possible. Learn more about heartworm medicine for dogs.

Cats. Heartworm disease in cats is very different from heartworm disease in dogs. The cat is an atypical host for heartworms, and most worms in cats do not survive to the adult stage. Cats with adult heartworms typically have just one to three worms, and many cats affected by heartworms have no adult worms. While this means heartworm disease often goes undiagnosed in cats, it’s important to understand that even immature worms cause real damage in the form of a condition known as heartworm associated respiratory disease (HARD). Moreover, the medication used to treat heartworm infections in dogs cannot be used in cats, so prevention is the only means of protecting cats from the effects of heartworm disease.

Ferrets. Heartworm disease in ferrets is caused by the same parasite that causes heartworm infection in dogs and cats. The disease in ferrets is an odd mix of the disease that we see in dogs and cats. Like dogs, ferrets are extremely susceptible to infection and can have larger numbers of worms than cats, but like cats, a low number of worms, perhaps just one, can cause devastating disease due to the small size of the heart. Heartworm disease is often more difficult to diagnose in ferrets and there is no approved treatment. Prevention is imperative for both indoor and outdoor ferrets.

How is heartworm disease transmitted from one pet to another?

life-cycle-largeThe mosquito plays an essential role in the heartworm life cycle. Adult female heartworms living in an infected dog, fox, coyote, or wolf produce microscopic baby worms called microfilaria that circulate in the bloodstream. When a mosquito bites and takes a blood meal from an infected animal, it picks up these baby worms, which develop and mature into “infective stage” larvae over a period of 10 to 14 days. Then, when the infected mosquito bites another dog, cat, or susceptible wild animal, the infective larvae are deposited onto the surface of the animal's skin and enter the new host through the mosquito’s bite wound. Once inside a new host, it takes approximately 6 months for the larvae to develop into sexually mature adult heartworms. Once mature, heartworms can live for 5 to 7 years in dogs and up to 2 or 3 years in cats. Because of the longevity of these worms, each mosquito season can lead to an increasing number of worms in an infected pet.

What are the signs of heartworm disease in dogs?

In the early stages of the disease, many dogs show few symptoms or no symptoms at all. The longer the infection persists, the more likely symptoms will develop. Active dogs, dogs heavily infected with heartworms, or those with other health problems often show pronounced clinical signs.

Signs of heartworm disease may include a mild persistent cough, reluctance to exercise, fatigue after moderate activity, decreased appetite, and weight loss. As heartworm disease progresses, pets may develop heart failure and the appearance of a swollen belly due to excess fluid in the abdomen. Dogs with large numbers of heartworms can develop a sudden blockages of blood flow within the heart leading to a life-threatening form of cardiovascular collapse. This is called caval syndrome, and is marked by a sudden onset of labored breathing, pale gums, and dark bloody or coffee-colored urine. Without prompt surgical removal of the heartworm blockage, few dogs survive.

What are the signs of heartworm disease in cats?

Signs of heartworm disease in cats can be very subtle or very dramatic. Symptoms may include coughing, asthma-like attacks, periodic vomiting, lack of appetite, or weight loss. Occasionally an affected cat may have difficulty walking, experience fainting or seizures, or suffer from fluid accumulation in the abdomen. Unfortunately, the first sign in some cases is sudden collapse of the cat, or sudden death.

What are the signs of heartworm disease in ferrets?

The signs of heartworm disease in ferrets are similar to those in dogs, but they develop more rapidly because the ferret’s heart is quite small. While dogs may not show symptoms until they have many worms infecting their hearts, lungs and blood vessels, just one worm can cause serious respiratory distress in a ferret. Symptoms of this distress include • Lethargy (i.e., fatigue, tiredness) • Open-mouth and/or rapid breathing • Pale blue or muddy gum color • Coughing

How significant is my pet's risk for heartworm infection?

95-2013Many factors must be considered, even if heartworms do not seem to be a problem in your local area. Your community may have a greater incidence of heartworm disease than you realize—or you may unknowingly travel with your pet to an area where heartworms are more common. Heartworm disease is also spreading to new regions of the country each year. Stray and neglected dogs and certain wildlife such as coyotes, wolves, and foxes can be carriers of heartworms. Mosquitoes blown great distances by the wind and the relocation of infected pets to previously uninfected areas also contribute to the spread of heartworm disease (this happened following Hurricane Katrina when 250,000 pets, many of them infected with heartworms, were “adopted” and shipped throughout the country).

The fact is that heartworm disease has been diagnosed in all 50 states, and risk factors are impossible to predict. Multiple variables, from climate variations to the presence of wildlife carriers, cause rates of infections to vary dramatically from year to year—even within communities. And because infected mosquitoes can come inside, both outdoor and indoor pets are at risk.

For that reason, the American Heartworm Society recommends that you “think 12:” (1) get your pet tested every 12 months for heartworm and (2) give your pet heartworm preventive 12 months a year.

What do I need to know about heartworm testing?

Heartworm disease is a serious, progressive disease. The earlier it is detected, the better the chances the pet will recover. There are few, if any, early signs of disease when a dog, cat or ferret is infected with heartworms, so detecting their presence with a heartworm test administered by a veterinarian is important. The test requires just a small blood sample from your pet, and it works by detecting the presence of heartworm proteins. Some veterinarians process heartworm tests right in their hospitals while others send the samples to a diagnostic laboratory. In either case, results are obtained quickly. If your pet tests positive, further tests may be ordered.

When should my pet be tested?

dog bloodTesting procedures and timing differ somewhat between dogs, cats and ferrets.

Dogs. All dogs should be tested annually for heartworm infection, and this can usually be done during a routine visit for preventive care. Following are guidelines on testing and timing:

  • Puppies under 7 months of age can be started on heartworm prevention without a heartworm test (it takes at least 6 months for a dog to test positive after it has been infected), but should be tested 6 months after your initial visit, tested again 6 months later and yearly after that to ensure they are heartworm-free.
  • Adult dogs over 7 months of age and previously not on a preventive need to be tested prior to starting heartworm prevention.  They, too, need to be tested 6 months and 12 months later and annually after that.
  • You need to consult your veterinarian, and immediately re-start your dog on monthly preventive—then retest your dog 6 months later. The reason for re-testing is that heartworms must be approximately 7 months old before the infection can be diagnosed.

Annual testing is necessary, even when dogs are on heartworm prevention year-round, to ensure that the prevention program is working. Heartworm medications are highly effective, but dogs can still become infected. If you miss just one dose of a monthly medication—or give it late—it can leave your dog unprotected. Even if you give the medication as recommended, your dog may spit out or vomit a heartworm pill—or rub off a topical medication. Heartworm preventives are highly effective, but not 100 percent effective. If you don’t get your dog test, you won’t know your dog needs treatment.

Cats. Heartworm infection in cats is harder to detect than in dogs, because cats are much less likely than dogs to have adult heartworms. The preferred method for screening cats includes the use of both an antigen and an antibody test (the “antibody” test detects exposure to heartworm larvae). Your veterinarian may also use x-rays or ultrasound to look for heartworm infection. Cats should be tested before being put on prevention and re-tested as the veterinarian deems appropriate to document continued exposure and risk. Because there is no approved treatment for heartworm infection in cats, prevention is critical.

Ferrets. Diagnosis of heartworm disease in ferrets can be more problematic. Your veterinarian may recommend both antigen testing and diagnostic imaging such as echocardiography to demonstrate the presence of worm in the heart.

What happens if my dog tests positive for heartworms?

No one wants to hear that their dog has heartworm, but the good news is that most infected dogs can be successfully treated. The goal is to first stabilize your dog if he is showing signs of disease, then kill all adult and immature worms while keeping the side effects of treatment to a minimum.

Here's what you should expect if your dog tests positive:

  • Confirm the diagnosis. Once a dog tests positive on an antigen test, the diagnosis should be confirmed with an additional—and different—test. Because the treatment regimen for heartworm is both expensive and complex, your veterinarian will want to be absolutely sure that treatment is necessary.
  • Restrict exercise. This requirement might be difficult to adhere to, especially if your dog is accustomed to being active. But your dog’s normal physical activities must be restricted as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed, because physical exertion increases the rate at which the heartworms cause damage in the heart and lungs. The more severe the symptoms, the less activity your dog should have.
  • Stabilize your dog's disease. Before actual heartworm treatment can begin, your dog’s condition may need to be stabilized with appropriate therapy. In severe cases of heartworm disease, or when a dog has another serious condition, the process can take several months.
  • Administer treatment. Once your veterinarian has determined your dog is stable and ready for heartworm treatment, he or she will recommend a treatment protocol involving several steps. The American Heartworm Society has guidelines for developing this plan of attack. Dogs with no signs or mild signs of heartworm disease, such as cough or exercise intolerance, have a high success rate with treatment. More severe disease can also be successfully treated, but the possibility of complications is greater. The severity of heartworm disease does not always correlate with the severity of symptoms, and dogs with many worms may have few or no symptoms early in the course of the disease.
  • Test (and prevent) for success. Approximately 9 months after treatment is completed, your veterinarian will perform a heartworm test to confirm that all heartworms have been eliminated. To avoid the possibility of your dog contracting heartworm disease again, you will want to administer heartworm prevention year-round for the rest of his life.

What if my cat tests positive for heartworms?

Like dogs, cats can be infected with heartworms. There are differences, however, in the nature of the disease and how it is diagnosed and managed. Because a cat is not an ideal host for heartworms, some infections resolve on their own, although these infections can leave cats with respiratory system damage. Heartworms in the circulatory system also affect the cat’s immune system and cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Heartworms in cats may even migrate to other parts of the body, such as the brain, eye and spinal cord. Severe complications such as blood clots in the lungs and lung inflammation can result when the adult worms die in the cat’s body.

Here’s what to expect if your cat tests positive for heartworm:

  • Diagnosis. While infected dogs may have 30 or more worms in their heart and lungs, cats usually have 6 or fewer—and may have just one or two. But while the severity of heartworm disease in dogs is related to the number of worm, in cats, just one or two worms can make a cat very ill. Diagnosis can be complicated, requiring a physical exam, an X-ray, a complete blood count and several kinds of blood test. An ultrasound may also be performed.
  • Treatment. Unfortunately, there is no approved drug therapy for heartworm infection in cats, and the drug used to treat infections in dogs is not safe for cats. Nevertheless, cats with heartworm disease can often be helped with good veterinary care. The goal is to stabilize your cat and determine a long-term management plan.
  • Monitor your cat. Heartworm-positive cats may experience spontaneous clearing of heartworms, but the damage they cause may be permanent. If your cat is not showing signs of respiratory distress, but worms have been detected in the lungs, chest X-rays every 6 to 12 months may be recommended. If mild symptoms are noted, small doses of prednisolone may be administered to help reduce inflammation.
  • Provide veterinary care. If the disease is severe, additional support may be necessary. Your veterinarian my recommend hospitalization in order to provide therapy, such as intravenous fluids, drugs to treat lung and heart symptoms, antibiotics, and general nursing care. In some cases, surgical removal of heartworms may be possible.
  • Maintain prevention. A cat that has developed heartworm disease has demonstrated that it is susceptible to heartworm infection, and both outdoor and indoor cats are at risk. It’s important to give your cat monthly heartworm preventives, which are available in both spot-on and pill form. Preventives keep new infections from developing if an infected mosquito bites your cat again.

What if my ferret tests positive for heartworms?

ferret 1191591 1920 2

Ferrets are extremely susceptible to heartworms.There are differences, however, in the nature of the disease and how it is diagnosed and managed. Ferrets are extremely susceptible to heartworms. Heartworms in the circulatory system also affect the ferret’s immune system and cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing, even sudden death. Ferrets may also demonstrate fluid in the lungs, decreased appetite and weight loss, paralysis of the hind legs, or enlarged abdomen. Bilirubinuria (dark colored urine) is common in ferrets with heartworm disease.

Here’s what to expect if your ferret tests positive for heartworm:

  • Diagnosis. As many as 14 heartworms have been found in a single ferret, but ferrets can be seriously affected by the presence of only one worm. Diagnosis can be complicated, requiring a physical exam, an X-ray or ultrasound exam, a complete blood count and several kinds of blood test.
  • Treatment. Unfortunately, there is no approved drug therapy for heartworm infection in ferrets, and the drug used to treat infections in dogs is not safe for ferrets. Nevertheless, ferrets with heartworm disease can often be helped with good veterinary care. The goal is to stabilize your pet and determine a long-term management plan.
  • Monitor your ferret.  Most ferrets infected with heartworms will be showing clinical signs. If worms have been detected in the lungs, chest X-rays every 6 to 12 months may be recommended. If mild symptoms are noted, small doses of prednisolone may be administered to help reduce inflammation.
  • Provide veterinary care. If the disease is severe, additional support may be necessary. Your veterinarian may recommend hospitalization in order to provide therapy, such as intravenous
    fluids, drugs to treat lung and heart symptoms, antibiotics, and general nursing care. In rare cases, surgical removal of heartworms may be possible.
  • Maintain prevention. Ferrets are very susceptible to heartworm disease and the results of infection may be devastating. Both outdoor and indoor ferrets are at risk and your ferret should be on monthly preventive for life. Preventives keep new infections from developing if an infected mosquito bites your ferrets again.

More questions about heartworm disease

Heartworm Preventive Waiver

Use this waiver to convince owners that it is worth giving pets a preventive.

Social Media Tools

Download and use the images below for your social media program.

Simply click on an image to view the full-size version, then right-click to download.

For your convenience, you may download all files at once in this zipped archive:
zipAHS-SocialMediaTools.zip

 


Infographics

Do's and Don'ts of Exercise Restriction

Keeping your dog calm and quiet in the weeks before, during and after heartworm treatment is essential. Follow these recommendations to help make treatment successful and safe.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Treatment | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

Download

The number of heartworm-positive pets may be bigger than we think

Many dogs and cats with heartworms are undiagnosed. Here's why.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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"Dog Days" of Summer

In this infographic, learn about the risks heartworm pose to dogs and cats.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Media | Pet Owners | Incidence

Download

AHS Incidence Survey Infographic

Heartworm was diagnosed in all 50 states in the 2022 Heartworm Incidence Survey. This infographic includes details from this survey, which was conducted with veterinarians across the U.S.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Media | Pet Owners | Incidence

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How Do Cats Get Heartworms?

Like dogs, cats get heartworms through the bite of an infected mosquito. However, the disease cats get from heartworms is different from that of dogs.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Life Cycle | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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A Stroll Through Petsville: How Heartworm Prevention Adds Up

Heartworm prevention makes sense for pet health--and saves dollars and cents for pet owners.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

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How Do Dogs Get Heartworms?

Understanding the heartworm life cycle can help you better understand why it's important to protect your dog. This infographic makes the life cycle easy to understand.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Myth Fact Infographic

Are you up for a heartworm quiz? This infographic tests your knowledge.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

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Pet Lovers Prioritize Pet Health During the COVID-19 Crisis

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Exotics

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Heartworm Lifecycle

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Is Heartworm on the Rise?

In the latest AHS heartworm incidence survey, veterinarians weighed in on incidence trends. This infographic breaks it down.in

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The Southeast has the Highest Incidence

The Southeast has the dubious distinction of having the most cases of heartworm in the country. This infographic has details.

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Mosquito Mayhem

What's the link between mosquitoes and heartworm disease? This infographic shares 5 facts.

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Who Gets Heartworms?

You probably know dogs and cats get heartworm disease, but did you know lots of other species do, too? This infographic takes you on a walk on the wild side.

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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10 Ways to Stay on Top of Heartworm Prevention

You don't want to forget your pet's heartworm preventive! Here's 10 tips to help you remember.

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What Raises The Risk Of Heartworms?

From weather to wildlife, there's multiple contributors to heartworm risk. Check out some common causes in this infographic.

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24 Hour Risk Graphic: Cat

Is there a time of day when heartworms aren't a risk for your cat? No!

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24 Hour Risk Graphic: Dog

Is there a time of day when heartworms aren't a risk for your dog? No!

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Cats

It's a myth that cat's don't get heartworms.

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Indoor

Indoor cats can get heartworms if they're not on prevention.

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Testing

Dogs on heartworm prevention still need annual heartworm testing.

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Transmission

Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes, not spread directly between pets.

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Composite

Make sure you can separate myth from fact when it comes to heartworm knowledge. Your pet's life could depend on it!

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost | Incidence

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Heartworm Disease In Dogs

The early signs of heartworm disease in dogs are subtle, which advanced disease causes serious disease--and even death, according to this infographic.

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Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Disease In Cats

The signs of heartworm disease in cats from range from coughing and nausea soon after infection to serious disease and even death when it is advanced, according to this infographic.

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Feline | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm By The Numbers

Add it up and heartworm "numbers" in this infographic will tell you how serious a problem heartworm disease is for pets.inci

Category: Infographics
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Take 5 on Feline Heartworm Disease

Do you need a reason to give your cat heartworm prevention? This infographic gives you FIVE.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Can we turn down the dial on heartworm risk?

From strategies that lower the risk of heartworm to behaviors that increase it, this infographic will help you understand the concept of heartworm risk.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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The ABCs of Heartworm Disease

There are 26 letters in the alphabet. And this infographic shares 26 facts you need to know about heartworm in pets.

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost | Incidence

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Significance of Heartworm Disease

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Is Heartworm Incidence?

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Heartworm Incidence: Up or Down?

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Canine | Prevention | For Owners | Shelters

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Protect Your Pet Handout

Numbers, numbers, numbers in this infographic--and it adds up to heartworm disease being a serious, nationwide threat.

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Incidence Map

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Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | For Owners | Shelters

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Heartworm Risk

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Significance of Heartworm Disease (2013)

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | For Owners | Shelters

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Heartworm Vectors

Everyday actions can expose pets to heartworm. This infographic gives examples of how transmission can happen.

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Weigh the Costs

Which can cost more--heartworm prevention or treatment? This infographic helps you weigh the costs.

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Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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1 Reason: Heartworm in Cats

Heartworm prevention is a must for cats. This infographic explains why they're worth it!

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Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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A Tale of 2 Kitties

Cats that are protected against heartworms can live longer, healthier lives. This infographic explains why.

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Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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The Mighty Mosquito

Mosquitoes may be small but they present a mighty threat to unprotected pets. This infographic explains the link between mosquitoes and heartworm disease.

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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A Dog's Heart is a Place for Love, not Heartworms

This infographic explains why heartworm prevention = LOVE.

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Canine | Prevention | Pet Owners

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Testing Algorithm

Just 10 minutes is all it takes each year to test your dog for heartworms. This infographic helps you determine if your dog should be tested.

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Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Does My Dog Need a Heartworm Test?

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Dogs VS Cats

Dogs are definitely different from cats but they both need heartworm prevention, according to this infographic.

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Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Additional Social Media Resources

Heartworm Incidence Maps

Tracking the impact of heartworm disease

Every three years, the American Heartworm Society (AHS) gathers data on heartworm testing to understand the impact heartworm is having nationwide, as well as in specific regions. Testing data from thousands of veterinary practices and shelters is used to create a detailed map showing the average number of heartworm-positive cases per clinic.


 


AHS Images

Media representatives and members are welcome to use the official American Heartworm Society logo and images below for promotional purposes. Please give proper attribution.

Heartworm Life Cycle Illustration

Heartworm Life Cycle Illustration

Heartworm transmission and development are complex and can be challenging to explain. The AHS has created illustrations to help you educate staff members and clients about the following:

  • The role of mosquitoes in the heartworm life cycle and how they transmit heartworms to pets
  • The difference between dogs, as primary hosts, and cats and ferrets, which are susceptible to heartworm infection but atypical hosts
  • How and when heartworm preventives work
  • The gap in time between when pets become infected and when they can test positive on a heartworm antigen test
  • The lifespan of heartworms in different pets

Depending on whether you are training veterinary staff members or educating pet owners, the life cycle illustrations below can be used to help you explain transmissionprevention, testing and treatment of this important parasite.


The American Heartworm Society has updated the heartworm life cycle for use in the veterinary clinic and for pet owners.

Both versions are available in either color or black and white. Click on the life cycle you would prefer to download and print.


Heartworm Life Cycle (Pet Owners)

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Life Cycle (Veterinary Professionals)

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Infographics

Heartworm Infographics

Pictures worth a thousand words

The infographics below are intended to make heartworm disease and its impact easy to understand. You may download, print, and share these images and files.

 

Do's and Don'ts of Exercise Restriction

Keeping your dog calm and quiet in the weeks before, during and after heartworm treatment is essential. Follow these recommendations to help make treatment successful and safe.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Treatment | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

Download

The number of heartworm-positive pets may be bigger than we think

Many dogs and cats with heartworms are undiagnosed. Here's why.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

Download

"Dog Days" of Summer

In this infographic, learn about the risks heartworm pose to dogs and cats.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Media | Pet Owners | Incidence

Download

AHS Incidence Survey Infographic

Heartworm was diagnosed in all 50 states in the 2022 Heartworm Incidence Survey. This infographic includes details from this survey, which was conducted with veterinarians across the U.S.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Media | Pet Owners | Incidence

Download

How Do Cats Get Heartworms?

Like dogs, cats get heartworms through the bite of an infected mosquito. However, the disease cats get from heartworms is different from that of dogs.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Life Cycle | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

Download

A Stroll Through Petsville: How Heartworm Prevention Adds Up

Heartworm prevention makes sense for pet health--and saves dollars and cents for pet owners.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

Download

How Do Dogs Get Heartworms?

Understanding the heartworm life cycle can help you better understand why it's important to protect your dog. This infographic makes the life cycle easy to understand.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

Download

Myth Fact Infographic

Are you up for a heartworm quiz? This infographic tests your knowledge.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

Download

Pet Lovers Prioritize Pet Health During the COVID-19 Crisis

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Exotics

Download

Heartworm Lifecycle

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Exotics

Download

Is Heartworm on the Rise?

In the latest AHS heartworm incidence survey, veterinarians weighed in on incidence trends. This infographic breaks it down.in

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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The Southeast has the Highest Incidence

The Southeast has the dubious distinction of having the most cases of heartworm in the country. This infographic has details.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Mosquito Mayhem

What's the link between mosquitoes and heartworm disease? This infographic shares 5 facts.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Who Gets Heartworms?

You probably know dogs and cats get heartworm disease, but did you know lots of other species do, too? This infographic takes you on a walk on the wild side.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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10 Ways to Stay on Top of Heartworm Prevention

You don't want to forget your pet's heartworm preventive! Here's 10 tips to help you remember.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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What Raises The Risk Of Heartworms?

From weather to wildlife, there's multiple contributors to heartworm risk. Check out some common causes in this infographic.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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24 Hour Risk Graphic: Cat

Is there a time of day when heartworms aren't a risk for your cat? No!

Category: Infographics
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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24 Hour Risk Graphic: Dog

Is there a time of day when heartworms aren't a risk for your dog? No!

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Cats

It's a myth that cat's don't get heartworms.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Indoor

Indoor cats can get heartworms if they're not on prevention.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Testing

Dogs on heartworm prevention still need annual heartworm testing.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Transmission

Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes, not spread directly between pets.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Composite

Make sure you can separate myth from fact when it comes to heartworm knowledge. Your pet's life could depend on it!

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost | Incidence

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Heartworm Disease In Dogs

The early signs of heartworm disease in dogs are subtle, which advanced disease causes serious disease--and even death, according to this infographic.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Disease In Cats

The signs of heartworm disease in cats from range from coughing and nausea soon after infection to serious disease and even death when it is advanced, according to this infographic.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm By The Numbers

Add it up and heartworm "numbers" in this infographic will tell you how serious a problem heartworm disease is for pets.inci

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Take 5 on Feline Heartworm Disease

Do you need a reason to give your cat heartworm prevention? This infographic gives you FIVE.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Can we turn down the dial on heartworm risk?

From strategies that lower the risk of heartworm to behaviors that increase it, this infographic will help you understand the concept of heartworm risk.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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The ABCs of Heartworm Disease

There are 26 letters in the alphabet. And this infographic shares 26 facts you need to know about heartworm in pets.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost | Incidence

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Significance of Heartworm Disease

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Exotics

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Is Heartworm Incidence?

Category: Infographics

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Heartworm Incidence: Up or Down?

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | For Owners | Shelters

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Protect Your Pet Handout

Numbers, numbers, numbers in this infographic--and it adds up to heartworm disease being a serious, nationwide threat.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Incidence Map

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | For Owners | Shelters

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Heartworm Risk

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | For Owners | Shelters

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Significance of Heartworm Disease (2013)

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | For Owners | Shelters

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Heartworm Vectors

Everyday actions can expose pets to heartworm. This infographic gives examples of how transmission can happen.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Weigh the Costs

Which can cost more--heartworm prevention or treatment? This infographic helps you weigh the costs.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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1 Reason: Heartworm in Cats

Heartworm prevention is a must for cats. This infographic explains why they're worth it!

Category: Infographics
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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A Tale of 2 Kitties

Cats that are protected against heartworms can live longer, healthier lives. This infographic explains why.

Category: Infographics
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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The Mighty Mosquito

Mosquitoes may be small but they present a mighty threat to unprotected pets. This infographic explains the link between mosquitoes and heartworm disease.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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A Dog's Heart is a Place for Love, not Heartworms

This infographic explains why heartworm prevention = LOVE.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Prevention | Pet Owners

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Testing Algorithm

Just 10 minutes is all it takes each year to test your dog for heartworms. This infographic helps you determine if your dog should be tested.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Does My Dog Need a Heartworm Test?

Category: Infographics
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Dogs VS Cats

Dogs are definitely different from cats but they both need heartworm prevention, according to this infographic.

Category: Infographics
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Images

Up-close and personal

Sometimes the most dramatic way to illustrate the importance of heartworm treatment and prevention is a photo that shows the true impact of the disease. The images below are provided by the American Heartworm Society for veterinary use.

Click an image below to see a full-resolution version.  You may then save the image by right-clicking (PC) or CTRL + Click (Mac) and choosing "Save image" from the popup menu.

Heartworm Image 1

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 2

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 3

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 4

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 5

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 6

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 7

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 8

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 9

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 10

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Image 11

Category: Heartworm Images
Canine | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Understanding Heartworm Disease

Watch and learn

These videos produced by the American Heartworm Society help you communicate the importance of early heartworm diagnosis and prevention. Feel free to post them on your social media platforms to promote your practice and increase understanding. 

Direct Downloads

Do Cats Get Heartworms (MP4)

How do Heartworm Preventives Work in Dogs (MP4)

What are Heartworms (MP4)

Heartworm Prevention Posters

Your walls will talk

Our beautiful new set of posters make a strong impression. Click on any poster thumbnail below to access a high-resolution version that you are invited to print or share.

Click an image below to see a full-resolution version. You may then save the image by right-clicking (PC) or CTRL + Click (Mac) and choosing "Save image" from the popup menu.

Heartworm Awareness Month Posters

Don't "fall" back on heartworm protection in the fall

Don't "fall" back on heartworm prevention this fall!

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Dogs need fall heartworm protection

Your dog's need for heartworm prevention doesn't stop in the fall!

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworms scare cats

You cat is--and should be--scared of heartworms!

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Your cat wants heartworms to "leaf" him alone

Protect your cat so heartworms "leaf" him alone!

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Don't "trick" your dog; keep him on heartworm prevention

Don't trick your dog; keep him on heartworm prevention!

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Cats catch heartworms!

Cats "catch" many things--including heartworms!

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Did You Remember My Heartworm Prevention? (Spanish)

This poster reminds cat owners not to forget their cat's heartworm prevention.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Weigh the Costs (Spanish)

When you compare the cost of heartworm prevention vs. heartworm treatment, heartworm prevention is much more cost-effective.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Prevention | Treatment | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Cost

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There's No Season for Heartworms

Heartworm transmission doesn't have a "season." That's why the AHS recommends year-round heartworm prevention.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Just 1 heartworm could kill me? (feline)

Most cats with heartworms harbor only a few adult heartworms. But just one adult worm can kill a cat.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Look Ma, no heartworms!

Heartworm-free cats are happy cats.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Weigh the Cost

The cost of heartworm prevention in dogs is a small fraction of the cost of heartworm treatment.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

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Where Mosquitoes go, Heartworm Disease May Follow

Only mosquitos transmit heartworms to pets.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Do I look like I have heartworms? (feline)

Heartworm infection in cats isn't visible from the outside.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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She's free. Heartworm-free.

Heartworm prevention in cats keeps them happy and heartworm-free

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Did you remember my heartworm preventive? (feline)

Cats need to get their heartworm prevention on time to stay protected.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Do I look like I have heartworms? (canine)

Heartworm infection isn't visible on the outside. Dogs should be tested annually for heartworms.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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We're heartworm - freeeeeee!

There's nothing like the feeling of knowing dogs are heartworm free.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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There's no room in his heart for heartworms. (ferret)

Ferret hearts are tiny, and just a few heartworms can be fatal.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Media

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Cost

Heartworm prevention can save you money in the long run AND save your pet's life.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

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Heartworm Tall Tales - Season

Many mosquitoes live and transmit heartworms before and after so-called "warm weather" months.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Heartworm Life Cycle (Pet Owners)

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Heartworm Life Cycle (Veterinary Professionals)

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: There's no such thing as a heartworm free zone. (Winter)

Keeping pets on year-round heartworm prevention is the best way to protect them from "surprise" infections.

Category: Heartworm Awareness Month Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Pet Owner Education Posters

These are Heartworms (Spanish)

A picture paints a thousand words in this poster showing what heartworms look like.

Category: Pet Owner Education Posters
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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The Masked Marauder

If pets are unprotected, they're in danger from mosquitoes that transmit heartworms.

Category: Pet Owner Education Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Don't let heartworm disease break your heart (empty collar)

Heartworm disease can be fatal in dogs. See your veterinarian for annual testing and year-round prevention.

Category: Pet Owner Education Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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These are heartworms

One mosquito bite can lead to heartworms that are 12 inches long--or more.

Category: Pet Owner Education Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Don’t let heartworm disease break your heart (dog house)

Heartworm disease can be fatal in dogs. Make sure to have your veterinarian prescribe heartworm prevention.

Category: Pet Owner Education Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Grounded/Unfounded Series

Grounded or Unfounded: Heartworm disease in dogs is difficult to treat.

While hearworm infection can be treated in dogs, the treatment regime can be arduous.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Grounded or Unfounded: Treating for ticks and fleas does not protect my dog from heartworm infection.

Not every parasite-prevention product prevents heartworm in pets--some only address pests like fleas and ticks. Read the label and make sure your pet is getting the protection he or she needs.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Grounded or Unfounded: Only dogs and cats get heartworms.

Heartworm don't just infect dogs and cats--from ferrets to foxes, a number of other species get heartworm disease, too.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Grounded or Unfounded: It's too dry here for heartworms.

Mosquitoes--and heartworms--can be found in desert climates where practices like irrigation and watering provide places for mosquitoes to breed.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Grounded or Unfounded: It's too cold here for heartworms.

Many areas of the country have cold winters--AND heartworms. Year-round prevention provides the best way to keep your pet safe.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Grounded or Unfounded: Indoor pets are safe from heartworm infection.

Mosquitoes come inside--which means "indoor" pets are exposed to heartworms, too.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Prevention | Life Cycle | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Grounded or Unfounded: Heartworms don't live here.

While heartworms are more prevalent in some parts of the country they're diagnosed in all 50 states.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Grounded or Unfounded: Dogs taking heartworm preventives should be tested every year.

Annual testing is an important component of heartworm management in dogs, even if they're on prevention.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Grounded or Unfounded: Cats don't get heartworm disease

Cats get heartworm disease, too--and unlike dogs, they have no options for treatment. Year-round prevention is the best approach.

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Grounded or Unfounded: All drugs that prevent parasites prevent heartworm infection.

Treating your pet for parasites? Read the label and make sure it covers heartworms!

Category: Grounded/Unfounded Series Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series

Think 12 Series: Would you know if she had heartworm (canine)

Heartworms happen on the inside. Only a veterinarian is equipped to test dog for heartworms.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Would you know if he had heartworm (feline)

Heartworms happen on the inside. Only a veterinarian is equipped to test cats for heartworms.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Has heartworms will travel

Coyotes get heartworms. And because they're not likely to be on heartworm prevention, they are an important source of heartworm transmission.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Prevention | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: If your cat gets heartworms there is no treatment

Sad but true--there's no approved treatment for heartworm infection in cats.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Loves the beach. Doesn't love heartworms

What dog would want heartworms? Protect your pup!

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Just One infected mosquito can infect many pets

An infected mosquito can infect every pet it feeds on.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Both indoor and outdoor cats get heartworms

Anywhere there are mosquitoes--indoors or out--there's a threat of heartworm disease for a cat.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Heartworms can grow up to a foot long (b)

Heartworms can grow to be 12 inches long or MORE inside a dog's heart, lungs, and arteries.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Enemies Approaching

Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes--and it only takes one bite.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Life Cycle | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: She can't hide from heartworm (canine)

Your dog can't play hide-and--go-seek with heartworms. Keep him on year-round heartworm prevention.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: He can't hide from heartworm (feline)

Unprotected cats are a risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito. Keep him on preventives year-round.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: He can't hide from heartworm (ferret)

Cute little ferrets are HIGHLY susceptible to heartworms.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Prevention | Exotics | Other | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Braves the outdoors. Fears Heartworms. (feline)

Cats that aren't on year-round heartworm prevention have reason to fear this sometimes fatal--disease.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Has your growing dog outgrown her heartworm preventive

Puppies grow up fast, and their heartworm medication dosage can change quickly. Make sure your dog is taking the right dose.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Has your big boned cat outgrown his heartworm preventive

Heartworm preventives are dosed by weight. Make sure your kitty is getting the right dose.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Heartworms can grow up to a foot long (a)

Heartworms are long. In fact, they can grow more than a foot long in a dog's heart, lungs and arteries.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Treatment | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Where there's a will, there's a way for heartworms to get inside. (Dog & Cat)

Indoor pets aren't safe from heartworms.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Where there's a will, there's a way for heartworms to get inside. (Cat)

Mosquitoes are sneaky and find lots of ways to come indoors. Indoor pets need heartworm prevention, too.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: There's no such thing as a heartworm free zone. (Desert)

Heartworms have been diagnosed in all 50 states.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Protection is priceless. (Dog)

Heartworm disease can threaten your dog's health--and even his life.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

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Think 12 Series: Protection is priceless. (Cat)

There's no approved treatment for heartworm infection in cats.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Cost

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Think 12 Series: Heartworms love vacations, too. (Young Owner)

Warm and sunny? Yes. Mosquitoes? Yes. Heartworm prevention? Yes.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Media | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Heartworms love vacations, too. (Two Dogs)

When you pack for that long vacation, don't forget your dog's heartworm prevention.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Heartworms love vacations, too. (Senior Owner)

That warm, sunny vacation spot is probably a safe haven for heartworms. Make sure your dog is protected.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Heartworms are always in season. (Hunting)

Make it "open season" on heartworms by giving your dog year-round heartworm prevention.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Heartworms are always in season. (Hiking)

Cooler weather doesn't necessarily mean the threat of heartworms is gone.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners | Incidence

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Think 12 Series: Heartworm protection is spelled L-O-V-E. (Dog)

If you love your dog, protect him from heartworms.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Heartworm protection is spelled L-O-V-E. (Cat)

If you love your cat, protect her from heartworms.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Best friends deserve the best care. (Dog)

Dogs are loyal friends. Show you love them by protecting them from heartworms.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Canine | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Series: Best friends deserve the best care. (Cat)

Heartworm prevention helps keep cats happy and healthy.

Category: Think 12 Posters
Feline | Prevention | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

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Think 12 Fact Sheets

Prevention all year long

There is no "off-season" for heartworm prevention and treatment. The handouts below make perfect value-added conversation starters with clients and prospective patients. Feel free to print and distribute in your practice.

Why Your Dog Needs an Annual Heartworm Check-up

Category: Fact Sheets
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis

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5 Facts About Heartworm Disease

Category: Fact Sheets
Canine | Feline | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Exotics

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What if My Dog Tests Positive for Heartworms

The news that a dog has tested positive for heartworms can be scary for a dog owner. This fact sheet outline what to expect during treatment and how to ensure your pet stays heartworm-free in the future.

Category: Fact Sheets
Canine | Prevention | Diagnosis | Treatment | Shelters | Veterinary Professionals | Pet Owners

Download PDF

Subcategories

AHS Member Resources

Thank you for being a member of the American Heartworm Society. Your participation in the AHS facilitates the global effort to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heartworm disease. Membership will keep you informed on vital developments regarding heartworm disease and provide valuable client educational tools. 

 

Join AHS

Join the leading association on Heartworm education and prevention today!

Already a Member? Sign in here.

Membership Details

The days are getting shorter, the nights are cooler, leaves are starting to turn, and football season is here. But that doesn’t mean your clients can forget about protecting their pets from heartworms.

To keep this message front and center with your clients, we’re sharing a set of new posters you can print OR post on your Facebook or Instagram page.

  • To save or print a poster, just click on the image below, then click on the “download” button and save the PDF file.
  • To save a poster for use on your social pages, simply open the downloaded poster, then right click on the file and follow the menu instructions to save the file as a JPEG image.

For more client tools, be sure to visit the Resource Center. And if you don’t already, make sure you’re sharing our Facebook and Instagram posts!