Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Heartworm medicine just became more important for your dog

Folks, if you're not current on your monthly heartworm treatments for your dog, it is especially important to get back on the program. The risk just increased significantly (because if they found a surge of 300 you know there are many others they have not found yet...).


Rare Mosquito Species Threatens L.A. County Dogs
WEST COVINA, Calif. (AP) ― A surging population of rare western tree hole mosquitoes in the San Gabriel Valley threatens dogs.

A surging population of rare western tree hole mosquitoes in the San Gabriel Valley threatens dogs.

The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District this season has trapped 300 western tree hole mosquitoes -- known as Aedes Sierrensis. The district has previously collected only 30 of the mosquitoes in the past 17 years.

The district covers neighborhoods from Altadena to Claremont and south to near the state Route 60.

Unlike other mosquito species, Los Angeles County health department Dr. Emily Beeler says the western tree hole frequently carries heartworm.

Worms fill up the heart of a dog and eventually kill the animal. Cats also get heartworms, but dogs are much more susceptible.

Monthly treatments can avoid heartworms.

No comments:

Post a Comment