Heartworms are invasive parasites that can make your dog very ill and, if untreated, can kill him. Heartworm larvae are transmitted to dogs through the bite of a mosquito that has bitten an infected dog. As the heartworm larvae mature, they grow into adult worms that will clog your dog’s blood vessels, lungs, and heart. This causes severe respiratory and circulatory issues. There are treatments for dogs with heartworms but they are expensive, may require surgery and won’t necessarily restore your dog’s health. Thus it is important your dog doesn’t get heartworms. Keep your dog inside when mosquitoes are most active. There are heartworm prevention medications available by prescription. Give this monthly medication to your dog all year round since mosquitoes can become active after just a few warm days. Your dog will need periodic blood tests to ensure he hasn’t been inadvertently infected with heartworms. Contact your vet Savannah, GA to learn more.