Dog Food Choice

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2005/04/13/pets-heartworm.aspx

Minimizing toxins is one of the foundations of our "Live Longer" program in which we use only those medications, preventatives and treatments that are most useful and necessary. With careful evaluation, some "approved toxins" may be avoided. Medications are by their nature toxic to certain organisms, and often have serious short- or long-term side effects for our pets.

That said, sometimes chemicals are necessary to save lives. The chemicals used to prevent heartworm are extremely effective and can save dogs from difficult, unpleasant and potentially dangerous treatment. However, many veterinarians recommend treatment schedules which result in far greater quantities of toxic chemicals being ingested by dogs than is really necessary or even advised by the American Heartworm Society (AHS).

Consider these easy steps you can follow to minimize the amount of medication you give your pets.

The Heartworm Season Varies By Climate

The transmissibility season for heartworm is determined by temperature. In order for the larvae of the heartworm, carried by mosquitoes, to be transmitted to a dog, the temperature must be at least 60 degrees for a month.

For example, the heartworm season in Florida will be quite long. In fact, it might make sense to give preventative treatments year-round there.

In Chicago, however, the temperature necessary for transmission of heartworm is not usually reached at night until June. The beginning of the season is not likely to be earlier than June 1 in most years, and perhaps later, even though mosquitoes may be present. Temperatures begin to drop at night by September. And, the season will certainly be over the next month, although you may still see mosquitoes.

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