Those biting mosquitoes will soon be here. Unfortunately many mosquitoes have picked up heartworm larvae from already infected dogs and cats. It is important to keep your pet protected. When an infected mosquito bites a pet, it injects larval forms of heartworm into the skin. The larval forms migrate to the heart and lungs where they grow into adult worms that are 10 to 12 inches long. Left untreated, dogs usually die of congestive heart failure. Cats usually develop only 1 or 2 worms and can die suddenly of respiratory problems, known as Heartworm associated respiratory disease - HARD. Heartworm can be a devastating disease - fortunately it can be prevented. Approximately 500,000 dogs are treated for heartworm disease each year in the United States. Unfortunately there is no approved treatment for heartworm diseas in cats. Monthly medication prevents heartworm and also protects against additional parasites. Despite excellent preventative medications, heartworm disease has spread to all 50 states. If the lady bugs get in so can the mosquitoes! Call 708-396-1014 today to get your pet started on heartworm preventative before its too it is too late.