Fundraiser to combat heartworms in dogs

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A microscopic threat afflicts thousands of dogs in Central Texas every year. Heartworms are spread through mosquitoes, and if left untreated, are fatal to dogs.

Austin German Shepherd Rescue, a non-profit rescue group, is on a mission to prevent heartworms through a February fundraiser called Save a Heart.

Heartworms are parasitic roundworms spread through the bites of mosquitoes. They are found in several types of animals, but are most commonly found in dogs. Once infected, the only way to rid a dog of heartworms is by injecting an arsenic-based medicine into the bloodstream. That causes the worms to slowly break down and dissolve. The treatment is compared to chemo-therapy in humans, often leaving the animal weakened for four to six weeks afterward.

Heartworms can be easily prevented with a monthly preventative medication given to dogs orally. But thousands of Central Texas dogs don’t get that medication. Volunteers with Austin German Shepherd Rescue note that 80 percent of the dogs the group rescues every year are heartworm positive. Treatment costs are several hundred dollars per dog.

Austin German Shepherd Rescue is asking the public to not only help prevent heartworms in their own dogs, but to help fund treatment for rescued dogs. Their goal is to raise $2,500 to fund the treatment for 10 heartworm-infected dogs. Supporters can also make a donation of a six-month supply of heartworm preventative medication.

Austin German Shepherd Rescue rescues, rehabilitates, and re-homes German Shepherds from across the State of Texas. Volunteers started the group in 1999 and it now has volunteers in Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas and elsewhere in the state. Those interested in adopting through the rescue can fill out an online application.