Although heartworms are easy to prevent, they can still be lethal to your dog. Furthermore, a parasitic infection is not always easy to identify, so contact your vet immediately if you notice any of the following signs or symptoms.
Visible Side Effects
One of the easiest ways to tell if your dog has heartworms is to look for physical indications, such as:
• Coughing
• Weight loss
• Rapid breathing
• Swollen chest
• Nose bleeds
• Fainting
Unfortunately, it can take months for these signs to manifest, at which point the parasites will be fully mature.
Changes in Behavior
Your canine companion may also exhibit subtle changes in behavior long before the onset of visible symptoms. Watch your pet carefully for increased laziness or inactivity accompanied by a loss of interest in food or treats.
Veterinary Tests
If your dog does not display any of these signs, a blood test might be necessary to confirm that there is an infection. Veterinarians also use x-rays, ultrasounds and EKGs to check for abnormalities and offer an official diagnosis.
Without proper treatment or preventative care, heartworms can have a devastating effect on the health of your dog. If you would like to find out more about heartworm tests in San Jose, visit this website as soon as possible.
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