If you have ever lost a pet to heartworms, you are well aware of this particular disease's devastating power. Untreated, dogs or cats with heartworms can go from very happy household friends to death in a matter of days.

WHAT ARE HEARTWORMS

Heartworms are exactly as their name would imply – a parasite that, upon maturation, resides in the heart. Dogs, cats, ferrets and even humans are susceptible to this aggressive little parasite. In advanced cases, surgery may be required to remove the parasite from the right ventricle of your pet's heart.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES

Heartworms are so dangerous because they are transferred to your pet via mosquitoes. And since there is no absolute way to prevent mosquito bites, your pet is susceptible throughout their lives. When an infected mosquito bites your dog or cat, the worm is transferred to the blood stream. It is then carried to the heart and lungs where it can grow to nearly 11 inches. 

Suggested products for heartworm and other parasites:
Parasite Dr.

Related topics:
Parasites
Flea Bite Dermatitis
Ringworm

Though no symptoms are present during the maturation of the heartworms (usually about six months), an obvious onset of early aging or excessive laziness can be seen after the heartworm has matured. In addition to a sudden onset of lethargy in your best friend, heartworms also show the following symptoms:

• Coughing
• Quickly exhausted
• Severe weight loss
• fainting
• Coughing up blood

Behaviorally, heartworms may be present if your dog or cat:

• Is always tired
• Pants incessantly
• Decreased interest in spending time with owner

WHAT IS THE CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

Conventional treatment is a monthly pill prescribed by a veterinarian. This pill is designed to kill any existing infestation of heartworms and other parasites. While this method is effective, it comes with some health risks -- a weakened immune system and strain to the liver and kidneys. Many vets believe that long term use of chemically based heartworm pills may increase your pet's susceptibility to skin disorders, allergies, liver disease and other serious illnesses.

HOW CAN NATURAL REMEDIES HELP

Natural remedies can help stop heartworms from maturing but do not eradicate them from your pet. If your dog or cat has tested positive for heartworms, a pharmaceutical product may be necessary to kill the worms.

Herbal and homeopathic treatments are beneficial to support your pet's digestive and cleanse the blood. Look for holistically-based medications which include natural ingredients that have anti-bacterial and anti-parasitical properties. For example,

• Cloves – Cloves are an antibacterial spice that is well known for its anti-parasitical properties.
• Neem – Neem is a popular wood known for its natural anti-worm properties. The wood itself is popular with many carpenters because it is so worm resistant. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Ruta Gravolens – (Herb of Grace) Ruta Gravolens are well known for its ability to treat high blood pressure and its ability to promote digestive and systemic cleansing.

Additionally, pet caretakers can focus on prevention by keeping their pet's immune system strong so that they are less likely to become infected with parasites. If you live in an area with a high risk for heartworms, have your pet checked regularly for early detection.

Heartworm is a very serious disease that can be fatal if left untreated. If your pet contracts heartworm disease, be sure to seek advice from a licensed veterinarian to see if natural remedies are an option for your dog.

New - Parasite Dr. by PetAlive

PetAlive Parasite Dr. is a herbal remedy specially formulated to support the digestive system of cats and dogs. It contains Wormwood which helps to cleanse the blood and digestive tract. Cloves is an antibacterial; and Neem is known to be an anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal.

To purchase or read more about Parasite Dr....