Jack is a black lab at HSSA who suffered a sever case of valley fever and heartworms.TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
With hotter temperatures on the way, there's some potential threats for your pets popping up more.
Bugs are out, so that means you might be seeing more mosquitoes around. These little guys can be a big threat because they cause heartworms.
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona is already seeing several cases of heartworm come through.
The shelter says right now there is a shortage of heartworm medication, but this shouldn't discourage pet owners.
Vets still have other kinds of heartworm medications that can quickly clear up the disease.
The main issue to keep in mind is that prevention is the key since symptoms are hard to spot.
"The bite of a mosquito actually introduces larvae into the bloodstream but then the male worms set up in the heart so it can be fateful," explains HSSA Veterinarian Jennifer
That's why it is so important to get your pet tested every year since it takes 6 months from the time they get infected to test positive.
Another threat to keep in mind says the Humane Society is valley fever. They are already seeing cases come through and it's not even monsoon time yet.
All you need to do is ask your vet for a simple blood test to look out for your furry friend.
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