When you have a pet, you love them as if they were family members. One of your responsibilities as a pet parent is to help your furry friends stay healthy and happy. If you live near Jackson, TN, and you want to find a veterinarian near you, our team at University Parkway Animal Hospital would love to meet and work with your pet. We’ve been caring for pets in your area since 1994, and our commitment to their health and well-being is our top priority.
Pet Wellness Visits
When your pet comes to us for an annual visit, our veterinarian will discuss all preventative measures that your pet may need at that time. Routine wellness visits are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Your pet will require vaccinations against communicable diseases at each wellness visit. Both cats and dogs will need injections to prevent rabies, which is a serious and potentially fatal disease. Another important aspect of pet preventative care is parasite prevention, including protecting your pet from heartworms.
What is Heartworm?
One of the most dangerous parasites that can affect your pet is heartworm. More than a million pets are diagnosed with heartworm each year. The parasite is more prevalent in regions with warm, humid weather, but it can be found in all 50 states. Heartworm can potentially affect both dogs and cats, making it crucial for pet owners to be informed and proactive.
How Do Pets Contract Heartworm?
Pets contract heartworm through mosquito bites. When a mosquito bites your pet, it leaves behind larvae that enter your pet's bloodstream. These larvae then travel to your pet’s heart and lungs, where they can grow into adult worms. If heartworm is not treated, the parasites can multiply and severely damage the heart, lungs, and lung vessels, leading to potentially fatal consequences. Symptoms of heartworm disease may not be evident until the infection has progressed, which is why regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential.
Preventing Heartworm
Despite its seriousness, heartworm is preventable. Our veterinarian can recommend a monthly medication to keep your pet safe from this parasite. These medications are typically easy to administer and can significantly reduce the risk of heartworm disease. If your pet contracts heartworm, treatment can be complicated and costly. However, our veterinarian is equipped to effectively treat heartworm infection if it occurs, but prevention is always the best course of action.
Contact University Parkway Animal Hospital
Whether you need heartworm prevention or your pet requires an emergency visit, our team at University Parkway Animal Hospital can help with all your pet care needs. Residents of Jackson, TN, can feel confident trusting our staff with their veterinary visits. Our animal hospital offers quality pet care in a clean, professional setting. We understand that your pet is a cherished member of your family, and we are dedicated to providing the best care possible. Call us for an appointment today and let us have the privilege of helping you care for your beloved pets.