Heartworm Disease in Central Florida: Why Year-Round Protection Matters
Living in Central Florida means sunshine, warm weather—and unfortunately, lots of mosquitoes. At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we talk often with pet parents about heartworm disease because it’s a very real, year-round risk in our area.
Heartworms are spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. When a mosquito bites your dog, it can transmit microscopic heartworm larvae into the bloodstream. Over time, those larvae mature into adult worms that live in the heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels. Even dogs that live mostly or entirely indoors are not immune—mosquitoes easily find their way inside homes, putting all dogs at risk.
Once established, heartworms cause serious damage. They can lead to coughing, exercise intolerance, weight loss, breathing difficulties, heart failure, and in severe cases, death. Treatment for heartworm disease is lengthy, stressful for pets, and costly—often involving multiple injections, strict activity restriction for months, repeated testing, and close monitoring. Most importantly, treatment carries real risks, which is why prevention is always the safest option.
Because mosquitoes are present in Florida year-round, heartworm prevention should be too. We offer several prevention options to fit different lifestyles and preferences, including monthly oral chews and a convenient injectable option that protects your dog for up to six months at a time. These preventatives are safe, effective, and far easier—and more affordable—than treating heartworm disease once it develops.
We also recommend annual heartworm testing for all dogs, even those on prevention. This helps ensure medications are working properly and allows us to catch any issues early, before serious damage occurs.
Protecting your dog’s heart is part of protecting their whole life. With consistent, year-round prevention and regular veterinary care, heartworm disease is almost entirely preventable. Our team is here to help you choose the best option for your furry family member and keep them healthy, happy, and protected in Florida’s mosquito-friendly climate.