Natural Heartworm Treatment and Prevention

Some people may think that heartworm is not as serious as other canine sicknesses but if one does not properly address this in a timely manner, it can escalate to more critical health risks that can result in death. Find out more about effective natural heartworm treatment and heartworm prevention steps you can undertake to keep your pet safe today.

Heartworm is a relatively common condition for dogs and cats during certain months of the year. Some people may think that it is not as serious as other canine sicknesses but if one does not properly address this in a timely manner, it can escalate to more critical health risks that can result to death. Find out more about effective heartworm prevention steps you can undertake to keep your pet safe today.

Not all of you might know what heartworm is. This is when a parasitic worm gets into the dog’s system, usually transmitted by a mosquito. When the worm fully matures, it can reach as long as 7 to 11 inches. It usually lodges itself into the heart, obstructing blood flow and causing serious damage to the heart. When this has not been treated properly, it can do irreversible damage to the heart and lungs.

Now, because the heartworm parasite is transmitted through mosquitoes, an excellent preventative method is to repel mosquitoes away from your pet. Some vets may prescribe drugs that kill off parasite larvae in his system. However, this is actually worse for the animal because the chemicals found in that pesticide, no matter how low a dosage it may initially be, it will add up and eventually impair your dog’s internal systems. A natural heartworm treatment is a better alternative to use.

Garlic is an often used mosquito repellant, thus very effective in treating heartworm. Crush and chop up a couple of cloves of garlic and sprinkle it over your dog’s meals regularly. If garlic is too pungent for your taste, then aromatherapy scents work just as well. Mosquitoes, parasites and ticks all hate the smell of peppermint, lavender, tea tree oil and cedar wood among others. Lightly mist a blend of water with tea tree oil over your dog’s collar, legs, and behind his ears.

A good diet is the best medicine you can give your dog. A good diet makes a healthy dog and mosquitoes are not likely to bite healthy animals. Serve fresh and raw food rich in essential vitamins and minerals that boost his immune system. A robust immune system will ensure that infections and harmful elements do not remain in your dog’s body for long.

Find supplements that will complement your dog’s diet. Wormwood, Tumeric Root and Spearmint are great natural heartworm treatment elements you can use. Black Walnut is known for its cleansing and anti-parasitic properties that are beneficial for pets suffering from heartworm. Also look for natural herbs that strengthen your dog’s liver and circulatory functions.

Heartworm prevention can be done through maintaining regular visits to the vet. This is especially important if you live in a humid area where mosquitoes and parasites are more rampant. Your vet will advise you on great products that can help your animal enjoy a better quality of life. Also look for pet-care sites that offer helpful tips on how to keep your dog healthy and strong at all times. Enjoy a healthy and happy dog today!