Kitterman Woods loves our furry residents and want them all to be safe. Most pet owners have heard about heartworm medications for their cats and dogs, but many do not know what how severe heartworm disease can be and how important preventative medication really is. Heartworm disease doesn’t discriminate either. It can affect both dogs and cats.

So how does a pet get exposed to heartworm disease? Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis. The parasite is transmitted to cats and dogs via mosquitos. It is not directly transmitted from one cat or dog to another pet.

In addition to being serious as a disease itself, heartworm disease is difficult to treat and complications can be associated with treatment of mature worms. In some cases, trying to treat heartworm disease can cause death of a cat or dog. For that reason, regular administration of an effective heartworm prevention product can save your pet’s life. It is important to note that it is possible even for pets that stay indoors to be bitten by mosquitos, so all pets should be on heartworm preventatives.

To find out more information consult your vet.

If you are looking for something fun to do with your pet this weekend why not check out the St. Lucie West Pet Fair. 150 NW Central Park Plaza, St. Lucie West. Saturday 04/22/17 Noon to 5pm. Visit www.stluciewestpetfair.com for more details.