What is the Best Treatment for Heartworms in Dogs?

Heartworm disease is no joke—it’s one of those sneaky, silent threats that can seriously harm or even kill your dog if left untreated. Caused by parasitic worms living in the heart and lungs, this disease can be life-threatening. But here's the good news: it's treatable, and even better—preventable.

So, what is the best treatment for heartworms in dogs? Let’s dive in, paw first.

Understanding Heartworm Disease

How Dogs Get Heartworms

It all starts with a mosquito bite. When an infected mosquito bites your dog, it transmits heartworm larvae into their bloodstream. Over the next six months, those larvae mature into adult worms and settle into the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.

Life Cycle of Heartworms

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Infected mosquito bites your dog.

Larvae migrate through the bloodstream.

Worms mature in the heart and lungs.

Adult worms reproduce—bad news multiplies.

More mosquitoes spread the infection to other dogs.

Early vs. Advanced Heartworm Disease

In the early stages, heartworms don’t always show signs. But as the disease progresses, it gets worse—dogs can suffer from heart failure, organ damage, and even death if not treated.

Symptoms of Heartworm in Dogs

Physical Signs to Look For

Persistent cough

Lethargy

Weight loss

Difficulty breathing

Swollen belly from fluid buildup

Behavioral Changes

Dogs might be less interested in walks, reluctant to play, or seem more tired than usual.

When to Visit the Vet

If you notice any of the above signs—don’t wait. Early detection makes treatment more manageable and affordable.

Diagnosing Heartworm in Dogs

Common Diagnostic Tests

Antigen test: Detects adult female heartworms.

Microfilariae test: Looks for larvae in the blood.

Chest X-rays and ultrasounds: Check for heart and lung damage.

How Early Detection Helps

The sooner you catch heartworm, the better your dog’s chances. Mild infections have higher treatment success and fewer side effects. Order heartworm tablets for dogs!

The Best Treatment Options for Heartworms

Melarsomine Injections (Immiticide)

This is the gold standard. It directly targets and kills adult heartworms with a series of deep muscle injections over several weeks.

Doxycycline and Steroid Therapy

Before killing the worms, vets usually prescribe antibiotics (like doxycycline) and steroids to reduce inflammation and kill the bacteria that live inside heartworms.

Supportive Care During Treatment

This might include:

Fluids

Heart medications

Pain relief

All customized based on your dog's condition.

Melarsomine Dihydrochloride: The Gold Standard

How It Works

Melarsomine targets adult worms directly and kills them off. Your vet gives it through a series of injections, spaced out over a month or more.

Treatment Schedule

1 initial injection

Followed by 2 more injections 24 hours apart after 30 days

Expected Outcomes

Most dogs recover fully with proper treatment and care. The key is strict rest during the treatment window to avoid complications.

Alternative Heartworm Treatments

Slow-Kill Method

Some owners opt for a monthly heartworm preventative and antibiotics over a long period (12+ months). It’s cheaper but slower and riskier.

Risks and Limitations

Prolonged infection

Possible lung damage

Risk of sudden worm death causing embolism

What to Expect During Heartworm Treatment

Vet-Supervised Plan

Treatment is customized by your vet and involves multiple vet visits, injections, and checkups.

Duration and Restrictions

You’re looking at 2-3 months minimum for full treatment. Your dog must avoid exercise during this time to prevent heart or lung complications.

Possible Side Effects

Swelling at the injection site

Coughing

Lack of appetite

Fever or depression

Cost of Heartworm Treatment

Typical Costs

Treatment can cost anywhere between $500 to $1,500, depending on severity and size of your dog.

Insurance and Financial Assistance

Some pet insurance plans cover heartworm treatment. You can also check with local shelters or rescue groups for assistance programs.

Recovery After Heartworm Treatment

Activity Restriction

Your dog must stay calm and quiet—think of it as bed rest for dogs. Avoid walks, running, or anything strenuous.

Monitoring Progress

Your vet will schedule follow-up visits and blood tests to ensure the worms are gone.

Post-Treatment Testing

Usually done 6 months after treatment to confirm all worms are gone.

Preventing Heartworms in the First Place

Monthly Preventatives

This is a must. Monthly chews, tablets, or topical treatments kill larvae before they can cause harm.

Natural Remedies: Do They Work?

There’s no proven natural remedy for heartworm prevention. Stick to vet-approved meds.

Year-Round Protection

Yes—even during winter. Mosquitoes can survive indoors or reappear early, so keep your guard up year-round.

Popular Heartworm Preventative Medications

Heartgard

A tasty beef-flavored chew that dogs love and owners trust.

NexGard Spectra

Protects against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and more in one chewable.

Revolution Plus

A topical treatment that also tackles fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms.

Can Heartworms Come Back?

Re-Infection Risks

Yes—if you stop giving monthly preventatives or skip doses, your dog can get infected again.

Staying Consistent with Prevention

Set reminders or use an app. Consistency is key to avoiding another costly treatment cycle.

Conclusion

Heartworm disease is serious, but it’s not a death sentence. With early detection, vet-approved treatment, and a whole lot of love and rest, your dog can bounce back. And let’s not forget—prevention is way easier, cheaper, and safer than treatment. So if you’re not already using monthly preventatives, now’s the time to start!

FAQs

1. Can a dog fully recover from heartworms?

Yes, most dogs recover fully if treated early and managed carefully throughout the process.

2. How long does heartworm treatment take?

Typically 2–3 months for the full treatment and up to 6 months for complete recovery.

3. Is heartworm treatment painful for dogs?

There may be some discomfort at injection sites and general lethargy, but vets manage it with supportive care.

4. Can I treat heartworms at home?

No. Heartworm treatment requires vet-supervised injections and follow-up care.

5. How often should my dog be tested for heartworms?

Once a year—even if they’re on preventatives. Early detection is key!