Re: [PyrNet-L] Kuvasz -heartworm positive

[Dogsownme@aol.com]

Thank you for the encouraging words.  I have (of course) decided to treat her.
I should add some of the information my vet passed along. 

One thing she stated was that "she is contagious" which shocked me.  What she
explained is that when a dog is heartworm positive with offspring in their
bloodspring that they are the ones who give the disease to the mosquitos who
in turn pass it to the next dog.  

She stated that I had 3 options.  

1.  Full fledge treatment (adult worms in heart and offspring)

2.  Kill offspring (to prevent spread) and use preventative for future
infestations

3.  Honestly have mind blank and can't remember-LOL - 

At very least she advised me to use spray on her to prevent mosquitos from
spreading to other dogs (citronella sprays are available)  

This is news to me about how it spreads and thought it might be useful
information.  I have also heard how some dogs live fairly normal lives without
treatment, and now realize that their offspring should at least be taken care
of.  

If I recall correctly, I think she said that not all dogs infected with
heartworm have the offspring in their bloodstream, but it is something that
should be tested.

Thanks again--and please keep the advice coming--there are many different
thoughts on this, and we all need to keep open minds (and most importantly,
open hearts)

Marcie