05/04/2025
๐ฆ Mosquitoes Can Be Deadly for Dogs. Here's why:
๐ Mosquitoes transmit Heartworm Disease. Heartworm is a dangerous and potentially fatal condition caused by a parasite called Dirofilaria immitis. It spreads through mosquito bites, not direct contact with other dogs. Once a dog is bitten, the parasite's larvae move through the bloodstream and grow into long worms that settle in the heart and lungs, causing serious health problems.
๐ฉบ Signs of Heartworm Disease (but usually appear when itโs advanced):
- Persistent coughing
- Fatigue, especially after mild activity
- Weight loss
- Difficulty breathing
- Swollen belly due to fluid buildup
- Sudden collapse or death in severe cases
๐ซ Common Household Risks That Attract Mosquitoes:
- Stagnant water in empty containers, flower pots, gutters, tires, or pet bowls left outside.
- Uncovered water drums or pails.
- Dark and damp corners where mosquitoes rest during the day.
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How to Reduce Risk:
- Empty stagnant water daily, especially in outdoor containers, plant bases, and gutters.
- Plant mosquito-repelling plants, such as citronella or lemongrass, in your yard.
- Keep dogs indoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Install screens or mosquito nets if your dog sleeps near windows or doors.
- Give monthly heartworm preventive medication. This is the most important step, even for healthy dogs.
๐ก Heartworm prevention is much CHEAPER THAN TREATMENT, which can be risky and expensive once the worms are established in the heart.
