Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition in dogs caused by parasitic worms, but it is entirely preventable with consistent monthly medication.
Untreated heartworm disease causes severe suffering including chronic coughing, exercise intolerance, difficulty breathing, and heart failure. The worms physically obstruct blood flow, causing significant pain and distress over months or years. Prevention is a fundamental welfare obligation for dog owners, as the disease is entirely avoidable. Even treated dogs face a difficult recovery period requiring strict exercise restriction for months.