If you live in an area with a heavy mosquito population your vet has surely preached with passion the urgency and need for monthly heartworm preventive medications. This is understandable in light of the terrible death that awaits one who succombs to these horrible creatures that mature in the heart of the infected host after being transferred there by the bite of an already infected mosquito who in turn carries the parasite from another host it has fed upon.
It's not that easy though. Many of the problems we see in the area of drug-related deaths and the largest number of medication related problems are caused by heartworm medication.
Wolves, coyotes and other mammels in the wild are also at risk of this disease however, like dogs, most will develop a mild infestation and then an immunity to the parasite...end of story.
A dog who is fed well, loved much, excercised often and groomed, massaged and monitored is a very poor host for such parasites. Parasites are always drawn to the weak, sick, old and dying. Healthy vibant dogs are at only slight risks. Dogs who are victims of over medicating and over vaccinations are good hosts for parasites.
The place to start when it comes to the battle against any parasite is with a healthy lifestyle. Parasites are everywhere. They make their home on bees, mice, birds, rabbits, horses and people. They are in the yard, the air, water and even food and drink. Our immune systems are always working and developing the necessary defenses to make us stronger and healthier. The same is true for dogs, and an early and consistent start when it comes to health, exercise and nutrition is the best defense.
Only a well-read and experienced holistic veterinarian will understand your concern about heartworms and in many cases it may be the only alternative you have but, be informed and don't just go with the flow. Medications are drugs and drugs are poisons. Their overuse may have long term consequences that pale in comparison to short-term challenges.
