Heartworm Disease: Why Your Pup Needs Protection Year-Round

Heartworm Disease: Why Your Pup Needs Protection Year-Round

If you live in Tampa, heartworm disease isn’t just a seasonal concern; it’s a year-round risk.

Thanks to our warm climate and high mosquito population, pets in Florida are exposed to heartworm far more often than in other parts of the country. And unfortunately, heartworm disease can be serious, costly, and even life-threatening if left untreated.

What is heartworm disease?

Heartworm disease is caused by parasites transmitted through mosquito bites. Once infected, the worms live in your pet’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels, leading to damage over time.

Dogs are most commonly affected, but cats can get heartworm, too, even if they live indoors.

Why Tampa pets are at higher risk

Unlike colder regions where mosquitoes die off in the winter, Tampa’s climate allows mosquitoes to thrive nearly all year long.

That means:

• There’s no true “off-season” for heartworm prevention
• Even indoor pets are at risk if mosquitoes get inside
• Skipping even a short period of prevention can leave your pet vulnerable

Signs of heartworm disease

Heartworm can be difficult to detect early. Many pets show no symptoms at first.

As the disease progresses, you may notice:

• Coughing
• Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
• Weight loss
• Difficulty breathing

By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often already advanced.

Prevention is simple (and customizable for your pet)

The good news is that heartworm disease is almost 100% preventable, and today’s options make it easier than ever to stay consistent.

At The Heights Veterinary Clinic, we offer several trusted prevention options based on your pet’s lifestyle and your preferences:

Long-acting injectable options (low-maintenance, year-round protection)

• ProHeart 12
  A once-yearly injection that provides 12 months of heartworm prevention
  Learn more here.
• Bravecto Quantum
  A long-acting injectable that provides extended flea and tick protection
  Learn more here.

These injectable options are ideal for busy pet owners who want consistent protection without monthly dosing.

Monthly oral and topical preventative options

• Heartgard Plus
• Simparica Trio 
• Revolution Plus

These are great options for pet owners who prefer monthly routines or need broader parasite coverage.

Need refills? You can order anytime through our online pharmacy: Visit our online pharmacy

Does my pet really need prevention year-round?

In Tampa, the answer is yes.

We recommend:

• Year-round heartworm prevention
• Annual heartworm testing for dogs
• Choosing a prevention plan that fits your lifestyle so you don’t miss doses

Protect your pet today

Heartworm disease is one of the easiest conditions to prevent and one of the hardest to treat.

The best prevention plan is the one you can stick with consistently, whether that’s a once-yearly injection or a monthly medication.

Request an appointment or call (813) 533-7363 to find the right option for your pet.

Have questions? Reach out through our contact page or learn more at The Heights Veterinary Clinic.