Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Heartworm Prevention Welfare

Heartworm disease causes severe cardiorespiratory welfare harm in affected dogs and is entirely preventable through monthly or annual medication.

Key Facts

Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) is transmitted by mosquitoes and is endemic in many parts of the world
Adult worms develop in the heart and pulmonary arteries causing progressive cardiorespiratory disease
Treatment of established infection is more complex and risky than prevention
Monthly oral or topical preventives or annual injectable products provide highly effective protection
Climate change is expanding mosquito range and increasing heartworm risk in previously low-risk areas

Welfare Considerations

Heartworm causes progressive suffering through cardiorespiratory compromise. Monthly preventive medication is one of the most effective welfare investments available to dog owners in endemic regions.

What You Can Do

Use veterinary-recommended heartworm prevention in endemic and high-risk areas
Have dogs tested annually for heartworm before starting or continuing prevention
Stay informed about heartworm risk in your region as climate change expands endemic areas