AHS Board Speaks Out

When treating dogs for heartworm, what if there's a delay between giving doxycycline and melarsomine? Dr. Chris Duke explains.

When treating dogs for heartworm, what's the difference in efficacy between two and three injections of melarsomine? Dr. Angele Bice breaks it down.

How can I safely transport dogs in the midst of heartworm treatment? Dr. Brian DiGangi shares the AHS/ASV recommendations.

How reliable are patient-side heartworm antigen tests? Veterinary parasitologist Dr. Lindsay Starkey explains.

What does the latest AHS survey say about heartworm incidence? Dr. Chris Duke explains.

How should I educate my clients about heartworm prevention this spring? Dr. Chris Duke shares tips.

Marisa Ames,DVM, DACVIM (cardiology)
Associate Professor
Colorado State University,
College Of Veterinary Medicine

Managing Dogs with Severe Heartworm Disease

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Managing Dogs with Severe Heartworm Disease

Fortunately, most infected dogs have no clinical signs or only mild signs of heartworm disease (HWD) and tend to undergo adulticide therapy with few major complications. The likelihood of complications associated with HWD increases with the chronicity of infection. Prognosis is dependent on stabilization, the ability to administer subsequent adulticide therapy and the ability of the family to commit to treatment of chronic conditions. Following is a brief overview of these complications, including clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment. For information on drug dosages, please visit www.heartwormsociety/treating-severe-HWdisease.

Can heartworm infection cause permanent damage in dogs? The answer is yes, says Dr. Stephen Jones.

Why is heartworm prevention important for cats? Dr. Elizabeth Clyde gives reasons.

Can I cut corners on the AHS heartworm treatment protocol for dogs? AHS Past President Dr. Chris Rehm says "no."