Did you know that just one mosquito bite can lead to a potentially life-threatening heartworm infection in your pet? With a recent positive heartworm case reported in Quakers Hill, just a stone’s throw from us, now is the time to ensure your pet is protected.

Heartworm disease is a serious condition caused by parasitic worms that can infect both dogs and cats. It’s spread by mosquitoes, and although it used to be considered rare in certain areas, increasing travel between regions and a changing climate have made it a growing concern. Far North Queensland, for instance, has long been a hotspot for heartworm, but now the risk is creeping into areas like ours. Whether you live here or are traveling with your pet, heartworm protection is more important than ever.

If left untreated, heartworm disease can cause severe damage to your pet’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. In dogs, the worms grow up to 30cm long and can clog the heart, leading to heart failure and organ damage. Cats, while less common hosts, experience severe respiratory issues when infected. Symptoms may not show until it’s too late—by the time coughing, lethargy, or weight loss appear, the damage could already be done. Worse yet, treating heartworm is costly, complex, and risky for your pet’s health.


The good news is that heartworm is almost entirely preventable with regular, affordable medication. By staying proactive and using year-round preventatives, you can shield your pets from this deadly disease. We also offer an annual heartworm injection for dogs, providing 12 months of protection with just one visit, making prevention even easier for you and your pet. And if your pet does test positive, early detection through routine testing can greatly improve the chances of a successful recovery.

Many pet owners believe heartworm is only a concern for tropical regions, but as we’ve seen with the recent case in Quakers Hill, heartworm doesn’t respect borders. With mosquitoes traveling easily and heartworm spreading to new areas, every pet is at risk. This includes cats, who are often overlooked when it comes to prevention, but are equally vulnerable.


At Rouse Hill Family Vets, we’re committed to helping you protect your furry family members. We offer comprehensive heartworm testing, year-round preventative medication, and annual heartworm injections for dogs to provide peace of mind. Whether your pet is staying local or traveling up north, our team can recommend the best prevention plan to ensure their safety year-round.

Special Offer: From now until 31st December, we’re offering heartworm tests for just $15! It’s the perfect opportunity to get your pet tested and keep them protected.

Concerned about heartworm? Don’t wait—book a heartworm test today, especially if your pet has recently traveled to high-risk areas like Far North Queensland. Prevention is always the best cure, and we’re here to help you keep your pets safe and healthy. Take advantage of our $15 heartworm test special before it ends on 31st December, and consider our annual heartworm injection to simplify prevention for your dog.

Your pet’s health is our priority. Visit us at Rouse Hill Family Vets or give us a call at 02 9086 9130 to ensure your pet is protected from heartworm disease. We’re with you every step of the way, from prevention to treatment, for a long and happy life with your pets.