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Heartworm treatment for dogs generally takes the form of giving heartworm tablets. These tablets are referred to as preventative but they are also treatment. This is because the tablets are being given to kill heartworm larvae that are already in our dog’s bloodstream. So while referred to as treatment they are also referred to as preventative medications. Because many pet owners are trying to avoid the harsh side effects that can occur from these preventative medications they are turning to natural prevention techniques instead.

Imagine being able to prevent heartworms in the first place and then being able to save a little money at the same time. I will give some links at the bottom for some great home remedies for our pet’s ailments and illnesses but first to heartworm treatment.

WHAT CAUSES HEARTWORMS IN OUR PETS

Heartworms are caused in our pets when our pets are bitten by mosquitoes which have become infected with heartworms from biting other infected animals.  A number of animals can be host to heartworms. They include dogs, cats, wolves, coyotes, foxes, ferrets, sea lions and even humans.  When the infected mosquito bites our pets the mosquito deposits larvae into the skin of our pets. The larvae are from the parasitic roundworm known as dirofilaria immitis. The larvae migrate to the heart and within 6 months they hatch or transform into worms that look like pieces of thread. The heartworms can be found in the chambers of the heart and in the two main arteries leading to the heart (Pulmonary artery and vena cava). From there they move to other parts of the body including the lungs and liver.

SIDE EFFECTS FROM HEARTWORM TREATMENT FOR DOGS

Side effects from use of heartworm preventative medications include diarrhea, convulsions, vomiting and general tiredness or weakness. Your pet’s body recognizes the chemicals in the heartworm pills as poison and uses their immune systems to try and fight off what they see as foreign bodies. Therefore, when on these medications your pets will have weakened immune systems which allow your pet to get sick easier.

ALTERNATIVE PREVENTION FOR HEARTWORM TREATMENT FOR DOGS

Because many veterinarians now recognize that long term use of preventative medications can cause side effects in our pets many people are turning to alternative methods to prevent heartworms. The methods will help overall but you should discuss using them with your vet.

• Provide a healthy diet. Many people are now avoiding commercial pet food and feeding their pets natural vegetables, fruits, and raw meat
• Boost your pet’s immune system
• Strengthen your pet’s heart and circulatory system
• In areas where heartworms are prevalent think about regular de-worming
• Black walnut extract and garlic are also being used as preventatives
• Prevention is much cheaper than treatment at the vet’s office

Want time tested ways to treat a lot of your pet’s illnesses and ailments without having to pay a vet bill? If so, then click on the links below and get some great home remedies that will save you a lot of money.