What is heartworm disease?
Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of pets, primarily in dogs. It can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and long-term organ damage. Prevention is key, especially since treatment options are limited or unavailable for some animals.
Heartworm is most common in warm, humid areas, especially the southern US, but cases have been reported in all 50 states. If you’re traveling to or living in a region with mosquitoes, especially during warmer months, your pet could be at risk. Talk to your veterinarian or check local heartworm maps to see if the area is considered heartworm-endemic.
Only a licensed veterinarian can advise on heartworm testing, prevention, and treatment for your pet — ask them about your destination before any trip. PadsPass helps you keep those records organized: complete your pet's profile with their microchip number, first scan date, and most recent rabies vaccination (the two most recent if possible) so your travel documentation is ready to go.