Pictured at Dogs Day Out

Pet Care with Dr Brendan

As we finally emerge from the chills of winter, we can be grateful for the fact that South Australia is not on the east coast, so we do not need to worry about trapdoor spiders, box jellyfish or paralysis ticks. However, a recent survey of shelter animals revealed the ongoing presence of heartworm in the South Australian dog (and cat) population. While heartworm disease is not common here, it is dangerous and can be fatal. Also the fact that it is spread by mosquitoes means that it strikes indiscriminately within the community.

As we all know, avoiding mosquito bites is nigh on impossible, but we can prevent heartworm disease by using any one of a number of treatments. These include monthly tablets, chews or spot-on treatments; or (my personal choice for my dog) a once-a-year injection. Make sure your pet is protected as the evenings warm and lengthen, and the mozzies begin to swarm!

See you next month!