Canine heartworm infection is widely distributed throughout the United States. Heartworm infection has been found in dogs native to all 50 states, and the disease is considered at least regionally endemic in each of the contiguous states and Hawaii.

All dogs regardless of their age, sex, or habitat are susceptible to heartworm infection. The highest infection rates (up to 45%) in dogs not maintained on heartworm preventative care are observed within 150 miles of the Atlantic coast from Texas to New Jersey, and along the Mississippi River and its major tributaries.

Other areas of the United States have lower incidence rates (5% or less) of canine heartworm disease, while some regions have environmental, mosquito, and dog population factors that allow a higher incidence of heartworm infection. Endemic regions have heartworm infections diagnosed in dogs as young as one year, with most areas diagnosing infections primarily between the ages of three and eight years of age.

The infection rate in male dogs is as much as four times higher than female dogs. Dogs housed outdoors are four to five times more likely to be infected than indoor dogs. Although there are differences in frequency of infection for various groups of dogs, all dogs in endemic regions should be considered at risk and placed on surveillance and prevention programs.

If you're concerned about your pet's condition, you're encouraged to make an appointment today to have your dog tested.

Heartworms in cats is a much more severe disease than in dogs. Recent evidence indicates that feline heartworm disease is much more prevalent than previously believed. Cats, even indoor cats, are vulnerable to heartworm infection, which is transmitted by mosquitoes.

Heartworm disease in cats can be confused with other diseases. Symptoms include chronic cough, difficult breathing, vomiting, lethargy, blindness, and even sudden death. Diagnosis of heartworm disease in cats requires a special blood test.

If your cat is positive for heartworms further evaluation and tests will be needed. Prevention of heartworm disease is very simple and inexpensive.

If you're concerned about your pet's condition, you're encouraged to make an appointment today to have your cat tested.

Here are some things to consider when taking your pet on the road:

1. Take a thermos of water from home, so your pet won't have to adjust to water that may have different chemicals in it. Some pets have adverse reactions to such changes.
   
   Vacation time is not a good time to change your pet's food. Take sufficient food from home in case the specific brand or diet regimen is not available where you plan to spend your vacation. Changes in food can result in diarrhea, loss of appetite, and vomiting.
   
   To reduce the potential for an upset stomach in your pet, provide smaller quantities of food using more frequent feedings while on the road.

2. You never know when your pet may have to be kenneled in an emergency. Make sure your pet's vaccinations are current (including bordetella), and pack your vaccination records with you.
   
   Have your veterinarian's phone number with you in case of an emergency. Be sure your pet has identification tags in case it gets lost in a strange area. You may choose to have your pet microchipped for its protection.
   
   Many pets wander away at roadside stops, or they get lost and confused in traffic accidents. It is wise to keep your pet on a leash at all times when outside your vehicle.
   
   Pets can jump from a vehicle in an instant! Cats especially like to escape when the car stops. For the safety of your pet keep it kenneled while traveling. A sudden stop can turn your pet into a flying torpedo. Another option is a pet safety belt, which can be purchased at your veterinarian's office.
   
   Never leave your pet locked in the car, regardless of the weather. Animals have a higher normal temperature than humans and can overheat quickly. If your pet becomes frightened or agitated, it could ruin the interior of the car.

3. Not all tourist sites welcome pets. Check in advance to see if there are accommodations for your animal where you'll be visiting. Travel agents and Internet sites are good sources of information.
   
   Kennels in the area may provide daycare options.

4. If you have never traveled with your pet before, try some short trips first. Some animals become very nervous and get carsick. Your veterinarian can supply you with a mild tranquilizer to help your pet adjust.