Heartworms are a dangerous parasite that can make your dog very ill or even kill him. The heartworm larvae can enter your dog’s bloodstream through the bite of an infected mosquito. Once in your dog’s system, the larvae mature and the adult heartworms clog the blood vessels, lungs and heart. This can affect your dog’s stamina and ability to absorb oxygen into his system. There are treatments for heartworm infection but it is often expensive and may require surgery. Without treatment a heartworm infection can kill your dog. Fortunately, there is heartworm prevention medication available by prescription. Give your dog this medication monthly. Your dog will need this medication all year round since just a few warm days can make mosquitoes active. Your dog will need periodic blood testing to ensure that he hasn’t been inadvertently infected with heartworms. Your Marietta, GA veterinary clinic can provide you additional information. Learn more here.