What is the name of heartworm in dogs? - briefly
The scientific name for heartworm in dogs is Dirofilaria immitis. This parasite is transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause serious health issues in infected dogs if left untreated.
What is the name of heartworm in dogs? - in detail
Heartworm disease, also known as dirofilariasis, is a serious and potentially fatal condition in dogs caused by the parasitic worm Dirofilaria immitis. This worm is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, which serves as its vector. The life cycle of Dirofilaria immitis involves several stages: microfilariae (immature larvae) circulating in the bloodstream, infective third-stage larvae that develop within the mosquito, and adult worms that reside primarily in the heart and pulmonary arteries of the infected dog. The presence of these worms can lead to significant damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels over time, making early detection and treatment essential for maintaining a dog's health and longevity.