Dog Heartworm in Los Angeles - Prevention & Treatment
Your dog tested positive for heartworm, or you want to prevent it. What do you need to know?
Talk to a Licensed Vet Now - FREEWhen Heartworm Needs Emergency Care
Get to an emergency vet in Los Angeles RIGHT NOW if your dog shows:
- Severe difficulty breathing or gasping for air
- Coughing up blood
- Collapse or extreme weakness
- Blue or pale gums
- Distended abdomen (fluid buildup)
- Sudden onset of symptoms
🏥 Los Angeles 24-Hour Emergency Vets
- VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital - (310) 473-2951
- Animal Specialty Group - West LA - (310) 473-1561
- ACCESS Specialty Animal Hospitals - Culver City - (310) 558-6100
When You Can Talk to a CanopyVet
A CanopyVet consultation can help if you need guidance on:
- Understanding heartworm prevention options
- Questions about heartworm test results
- Managing a dog with heartworm during treatment
- Choosing the right prevention medication
- Recognizing early symptoms
- When to seek in-person vet care
Heartworm in Los Angeles
Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes and is present in Los Angeles:
- Year-round risk - LA's mild climate means mosquitoes are active all year
- Prevention is critical - Monthly preventatives are highly effective
- Treatment is expensive - Prevention costs far less than treatment
- Early detection matters - Annual testing recommended
🌴 Heartworm Risk in LA
Living in Los Angeles increases heartworm risk:
- Mild winters: Mosquitoes active year-round
- Urban water sources: Standing water in planters, gutters
- Dog parks: Higher exposure to mosquitoes
- Hiking trails: Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon have mosquitoes
Signs of Heartworm Disease
Watch for these symptoms (often appear in later stages):
- Persistent cough - Especially after exercise
- Fatigue - Tires easily during walks
- Decreased appetite - Weight loss
- Difficulty breathing - Rapid or labored breathing
- Bulging chest - Due to heart enlargement
What to Do Right Now
- Check prevention status - Is your dog on monthly heartworm prevention?
- Schedule annual testing - Early detection is key
- Monitor for symptoms - Coughing, fatigue, breathing issues
- Talk to a vet - Get guidance on prevention or treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does CanopyVet cost?
Get a 7-day free trial when you download the app! Your first telehealth consultation is completely free, then just $5 per consultation after that.
How do dogs get heartworm?
Heartworm is transmitted through mosquito bites. An infected mosquito bites a dog and transfers heartworm larvae into the bloodstream.
Can heartworm be prevented?
Yes! Monthly preventatives (oral, topical, or injectable) are highly effective. Our vets can recommend the best option for your dog.
Is heartworm treatment expensive?
Yes, treatment can cost $1,000-$3,000+. Prevention costs $50-$150/year, making it far more affordable.
Why LA Pet Parents Choose CanopyVet
- ✅ 7-day free trial - First consultation completely free
- ✅ Only $5 per consult - Affordable prevention guidance
- ✅ Licensed California vets - Board-certified professionals
- ✅ Instant access - Get answers when you need them
- ✅ Available 24/7 - Support whenever you have questions
CanopyVet provides triage and guidance. Heartworm requires veterinary diagnosis and treatment. We can help you understand prevention and when to seek in-person care.