Has any had to treat their dog for Heart Worm?

Question

I adopted a lab about 4 weeks ago.  When I got him he didn't know how to walk on a leash, sit, down, or even play.  He does all of this now and started agility training last week.  I took him to the vet yesterday for his micro-chip, neutering, shots and blood work.  When I picked him up I was told that he has heartworm.  It's possible that he is in stage 2 or 3.  I've only heard him cough once, but since he has learned to play, he only plays for a few minutes then seeks out some shade and lays down.   I was thinking that he was getting hot (he's black and it's been in the triple digits the past couple of weeks) so I would let him relax in the shade a minute or two, play another minute or two and finish.  I have since found out that excersice intolerance is a sign of stage 3.  Since I've only had him a month I don't know what he is supposed to be like when he feels good.  
Can anyone shed some light on what to expect with his treatment?
I know we have to drop out of agility for now.

hanksimon · Accepted Answer

You didn't say his age, which makes a difference, but I imagine that he is about a year old. But labs tend to be tough.

I did the heartworm thing many years ago. It cost about $300 - $400, and they gave him some shots of poison to kill the worms. I don't think that the poison is that bad for the dog, but the dead worms are. The dog has to be calm for about 6 weeks, because too much exercise forces the dead worms into little blood vessels, and can cause problems. It takes about 6 weeks for the body to absorb or expel the worms. 

Then, the vet will give another treatment for any smaller worms. The vet will check the heart and lungs for any damage from the worms, but most dogs come thru the treatment just fine. ... It's just a pain to try to keep the dog quiet.

Talk to the Vet and get get him to tell you the details.  BTW, I think you can take the dog for a walk and do calm obedience training, just no exercise or excitement that will increase heart rate.

bob © · Answer

your vet will be able to tell you what stage he is in.  they should run full bloodwork, look for microfilaria (baby heartworms) under the microscope, and do chest xrays.  how old is your dog?  heartworm treatment can be very scary, but most dogs do really well with it.  your dog will go in for treatment usually twice spaced a few weeks apart. he will get one injection of immiticide on day one, another injection on day two and then will need to stay with your vet for a few days, then he can go home with you.  you will need to keep him calm the whole time, no running, jumping, or playing!!  any signs of coughing after treatment and you need to get him back to the vet asap.  they will also put him on something like deramaxx or rimadyl to help prevent bloodclots from forming.  my big dog that i adopted had to go through treatment.

Scooter · Answer

I know this must be so disappointing but dogs can come through the treatment and be fine for years and years.  I have a friend that had her dog treated and he is fine.  Your vet should be able to recommend the best course for you to take.  He sounds like a super smart, sweet dog so I would definitely try to save him if at all possible.  Best of luck!

Anonymous · Answer

All I know about heartworms is that they will eventually kill the dog unless treated.

The treatment is extremely rigorous and can even kill the dog.

I'm sorry and hope the best for your new friend.  Your vet would know the best way to try to cure him.

I wish you all the luck in the world !!

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Has any had to treat their dog for Heart Worm?

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