Heartworm cases on the rise in the Burdekin, vet warns

A MOSQUITO-BORNE disease which affects both cats and dogs and was once considered “relatively under control” has become a serious issue in North Queensland.

The region’s pet owners are being urged to keep their pets up to date with heartworm prevention medication as one vet reported they were diagnosing an average of two heartworm cases each week in the Burdekin. Kate’s Mobile Vet veterinarian Kate Lyne said while the disease was treatable it took its toll on the animal and the owner’s pocket, and it was also preventable.

“I have been diagnosing an average of two dogs a week with heartworm recently, demonstrating that a disease which used to be relatively under control is becoming a serious issue in North Queensland,” Dr Lyne said.

“There are many products available to prevent this deadly disease, including monthly medication – which should be administered on the same day every month – or an annual injection.

“The disease is treatable but is a long and expensive process which can take its toll on your dog, so prevention is extremely important.”

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn Mclaughlin said staff at the pound had also noticed a rise in the number of animals they took in that were sick with heartworm.

“There have been a number of animals through the pound that council staff haven’t been able to rehome due to ill health, with heartworm normally the cause,” Cr Mclaughlin said.

“Heartworm is a mosquito-borne disease, so I want to urge all residents to be more vigilant as we enter the wet season and ensure your pets’ treatments are up to date.”