Saving Dogs from Heartworms: Southwest Humane's Mission

Carmen López · 2026-05-20

Heartworm disease is a serious threat to dogs, especially in warmer parts of the country. But there's good news: organizations like the Southwest Humane Society are stepping up to treat and rehabilitate infected pups. Let's dive into what this means for your furry friends and how you can help. ### What Is Heartworm Disease? Heartworms are parasites that live in the heart and lungs of infected animals. They're spread through mosquito bites. Once inside a dog's body, they grow into adult worms that can cause severe damage. Symptoms include coughing, tiredness, and weight loss. If left untreated, heartworm disease can be fatal. The good news? It's preventable. Monthly medications are affordable and easy to give. But for dogs already infected, treatment is more complex and costly.  ### Southwest Humane Society's Life-Saving Work Recently, the Southwest Humane Society launched a program to treat dogs with heartworms. This initiative is a lifeline for many pets who would otherwise face euthanasia. The shelter is using proven treatment protocols to rid these dogs of the parasite. Here's what their program includes: - Full veterinary exams to assess each dog's health - A series of injections to kill adult heartworms - Strict rest and recovery periods (usually 4-6 weeks) - Follow-up testing to ensure the infection is gone Treatment isn't easy. Dogs must be kept calm and confined during recovery. But the result is a second chance at a healthy life.  ### Why This Matters for Pet Owners If you live in an area with mosquitoes, your dog is at risk. Even indoor dogs can get bitten. The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round prevention. A single monthly chewable tablet or topical treatment can save you hundreds in vet bills. "Prevention is always better than treatment," says Dr. Maria Torres, a veterinarian who works with rescue groups. "The cost of prevention is about $5 to $15 per month. Treatment can easily run $500 to $1,500 or more." That's a big difference. And it's not just about money. Treatment is hard on a dog's body and can take months of careful management. ### How You Can Make a Difference There are simple ways to support shelters like Southwest Humane Society: - Donate to their heartworm treatment fund - Adopt a dog that has completed treatment - Volunteer to walk or foster recovering pups - Spread the word about prevention Even a small donation can help cover the cost of medication or a vet visit. Every dollar counts when it comes to saving a life. ### The Bigger Picture Heartworm disease is on the rise in the United States. Climate change is expanding mosquito habitats, putting more dogs at risk. That's why community efforts like this one are so important. They not only treat individual animals but also raise awareness about prevention. If you're a dog owner, talk to your vet about the best prevention plan for your pet. And if you can, support your local shelter. Together, we can make sure fewer dogs suffer from this preventable disease. Remember: a little prevention goes a long way. Your dog depends on you to keep them safe and healthy. Let's give them the care they deserve.