Dog Health Questions

Help for Heartworms

There are a number of oral and topical heartworm preventatives such as Heartgard or Interceptor available to treat dogs and cats, and these can be administered once per month. These medications help to prevent the microfilariae (larvae) from developing into adult heartworms.

Because dogs and cats that live outside are more susceptible to heartworm, it is recommended that they receive this treatment monthly. Indoor pets, however, still remain at risk. Keep in mind that these medications have toxic side effects and have been linked to serious disorders such as liver and kidney disease, arthritis and skin allergies.

Heartworm in dogs is treated with an adulticide, medication administered to kill adult worms over a period of a month. After the one month period filaricide therapy which involves the administration of microfilaricide to kill the microfilariae. Treatment for heartworm in cats has not been approved as yet and involves treating the symptoms with intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, bronchodilators or confinement.

Natural remedies

Herbal and homeopathic remedies have also proven to be a very effective alternative to treat parasites in pets. These natural remedies are safe and gentle for your pet and encourage overall health and wellbeing. Herbal ingredients such as Artemisia absinthinium (Wormwood), Eugenia caryophyllata (Cloves), Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Ruta graveolens (Herb of Grace) promote digestive health and balance, cleanse the blood and support the immune system.

Follow these useful tips to help prevent heartworm infection in pets and ensure overall health and well-being:

* Feed pets a natural, well balanced diet without preservatives, additives or colorants to boost their immune system
* Include fresh, raw foods together with yeast and garlic to ward off mosquitoes
* Ensure that your pets food and water bowls are made of stainless steel, not plastic and are always clean
* Always have fresh, clean water available for your dog or cat
* Make sure that your pet has regular exercise
* Avoid using commercial flea products and limit the long-term use of heartworm prevention drugs
* If you live in a mosquito-infested area, keep dogs and cats indoors in the late afternoon and evenings to avoid a mosquito attack
* Use a natural insect repellant such as citronella oil and water to repel mosquitoes
* Detox your pet regularly to get rid of an accumulation of toxins

Recommended Product

Parasite Dr. is a 100% natural herbal treatment for heartworms. It is specially formulated to promote digestive health and balance, cleanse the blood and support the immune system. It also helps to cleanse the digestive system and promote healthy digestive functioning. Parasite Dr. comes in convenient capsule form. They can be swallowed whole. However, it is easier and more convenient to open the capsule and mix the contents with wet food or a treat. If you would like to find out more about this product, then please click here.