Heartworm: 250,000 Dogs and Cats Effected in 2001

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Heartworm: 250,000 Dogs and Cats Effected in 2001

In a recent survey that tracked reported heartworm infection cases in dogs and cats, the American Heartworm Society found that at least 250,000 dogs and cats tested positive for heartworm infection nationwide in 2001. This survey is the first of its kind to track heartworm disease infections by county and is the first survey since the 1950s to track heartworm disease in detail.

The survey, sponsored by Merial, maker of HEARTGARD® (Go here) brand products, analyzed heartworm tests completed in 2001 by 18,000 veterinary clinics nationwide. Reported cases were highest in the Southeast and Texas, and heartworm infection in dogs and cats was shown to be present throughout the entire country, in the vast majority of counties.

According to a recent Gallup survey, only 55 percent of dogs in the U.S. are on a heartworm preventive, down from 66 percent in 1998. While many veterinarians recommend using a heartworm preventive year-round, the average pet receives only six doses a year, not enough to guarantee against infection and spread of infection. Additionally, far too many pet owners have a false sense of security because their pets do not go outside. Even these pets need year-round protection — nearly 55 percent of all reported feline heartworm cases are diagnosed in indoor cats.

"Heartworm is a deadly, but easily preventable disease that too many pet owners are not taking seriously," said Dr. Donald Doiron, president of the American Heartworm Society. "Many pet owners do not realize that some heartworm preventives can also prevent other common threats such as gastro-intestinal parasites, including hookworms and roundworms. Today, thanks to improved science, there are several simple choices for prevention that are even considered enjoyable for the pet."

"Without proper prevention, it is possible that 50 to 90 percent of dogs could be at risk for contracting heartworm disease every year, depending on which area of the country they live in," said Doiron. "Through this survey, we hope to demonstrate the prevalence of, and consequently, the need to protect pets against heartworm disease. The American Heartworm Society recommends that pet owners talk with their veterinarian about routine administration of a preventative. Prevention of the disease is much safer and more economical than treatment of an infected dog or cat."
Courtesy: Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

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