Heartworms are parasites spread by mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites your pet, it can pass on larvae that mature into worms living in the heart and lungs - causing lasting damage over time. It's a manageable risk, as long as you stay ahead of it.
The risk here
While heartworm is most common in warmer, more humid regions, cases do occur in Colorado - and pets that travel to higher-risk areas can be exposed. Because mosquitoes are unpredictable and the consequences are serious, veterinarians recommend year-round prevention as the safest approach.
Prevention is simple - treatment isn't
Heartworm prevention is easy: a monthly chewable or a long-acting product keeps your pet protected. Treating an established heartworm infection, on the other hand, is expensive, hard on your pet, and requires weeks of strict rest.
We also recommend an annual heartworm test, since prevention works best when we confirm your pet is clear each year. Ask us which prevention option fits your pet and your routine.