Mosquitoes - A Threat to Your Pet

This year's abundant winter rains are expected to increase the mosquito habitat, bringing two threats to your pet's health. Local veterinarians like Dr. George Walters, DVM, from Northbay Animal Hospital, a Diamond Certified organization, are warning pet owners that both West Nile virus and Heartworm disease are spread by mosquito bites. Heartworm disease infects dogs, cats, and other small animals, while West Nile only infects horses and humans.

Dr. Walters says Heartworm disease is much less of a risk for dogs and cats taking a monthly treatment such as Heartguard. Infected dogs can be treated, but no safe treatment has been developed for cats. Dogs can pass the infection to other dogs, cats, and even humans by mosquitoes. Eight-five percent of dogs rescued from Hurricane Katrina areas and brought here tested positive; they could be spreading the disease. Watch for symptoms which mimic a heart condition, such as coughing, weakness, and/or shortness of breath.