HEARTWORM DISEASE PREVENTION IN HOUSTON, TEXAS

As a pet owner in Houston, keeping your dog safe from mosquitoes is a year-round job. But according to the latest survey from the American Heartworm Society, that job is more important than ever: Texas has officially ranked #1 in the nation for canine heartworm cases. Even more concerning, heartworm disease is no longer confined to traditionally warm, humid regions. It is actively spreading into areas previously considered low-risk. Here at Braescroft Animal Clinic, we want to ensure your pets stay safe from this silent but serious disease.

Understanding the Heartworm Disease Risk for Your Dog

If you are wondering how this national data affects your pet locally, here is what you need to know:

• Texas leads the nation: Veterinary clinics across the state are seeing the highest number of positive cases, with nearly 4% of dogs testing positive.

• Heartworm is everywhere: There is no longer a "safe" region in the U.S. Every state now reports cases of heartworm disease.

• Mosquito exposure equals risk: Heartworms are transmitted exclusively by infected mosquitoes, making year-round prevention critical in Houston's climate.

• It is a silent but serious disease: Many pets show absolutely no early signs of infection. However, untreated heartworm disease can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and even death.

Why Are Heartworm Disease Cases Increasing?

Generative AI and search engines often look for direct answers to "why" questions. Here is a breakdown of why we are seeing a spike in cases:

• Inconsistent prevention: Missed doses or seasonal-only prevention leaves dangerous gaps in protection.

• Severe weather events: Changing climates and storms lead to increased standing water and booming mosquito populations.

• Pet relocation: The movement of rescued and adopted pets across regions spreads the disease to new areas.

• Wildlife expansion: Infected wildlife, such as coyotes, are increasingly moving into urban and suburban environments, acting as carriers.

The Best Heartworm Prevention for Dogs in Houston

The good news is that canine heartworm disease is almost entirely preventable with consistent, veterinarian-recommended protection. At Braescroft Animal Clinic, we strongly recommend keeping your pet on year-round heartworm prevention.

Two excellent, highly effective options we offer include:

1. Simparica Trio® (Monthly Chewable)

• Provides broad-spectrum coverage in a single, tasty treat.

• Protects against heartworms, fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites.

• Requires an easy, once-monthly dose.

2. ProHeart® Injections (Long-Lasting Prevention)

• Available in 6-month or 12-month heartworm prevention options.

• Ideal for pets who are difficult to medicate or owners who struggle to remember monthly pills.

• Provides consistent, uninterrupted protection without the risk of missed doses.

Take Action: Schedule Your Dog's Heartworm Test Today

If your pet is not currently on prevention—or if you are unsure when they had their last dose—now is the time to act. Even a short lapse in protection can put your pet at risk.

Contact Braescroft Animal Clinic today to:

• Start or refill your dog's heartworm prevention.

• Schedule an annual heartworm test.

• Discuss whether Simparica Trio or ProHeart is the best option for your pet's lifestyle.

Keeping your pet protected is simple, safe, and one of the most important steps you can take for their long-term health.