Yes, heartworm can be fatal to dogs if left untreated. Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. Once inside a dog's body, these worms can grow up to a foot long and live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Over time, they can cause serious damage to the dog's heart and lungs, leading to severe health issues and potentially death.

Symptoms of heartworm disease can be subtle at first, including a mild cough, fatigue, and decreased appetite. As the disease progresses, dogs may experience more severe symptoms such as weight loss, difficulty breathing, and even heart failure.

The good news is that heartworm disease is preventable with monthly preventative medications. If a dog is diagnosed with heartworm, treatment is available, but it can be risky and requires careful monitoring by a veterinarian. Early detection and treatment are crucial to improving the chances of recovery and preventing fatal outcomes. Regular veterinary check-ups and heartworm testing are essential for maintaining your dog's health.

In summary, heartworm can indeed be fatal, but with proper prevention and timely treatment, the risks can be significantly reduced.

This answer doesn't make sense or isn't related to the question. Mark it as a probable hallucination of the AI model.

Topics covered in this question:

Dog Health Veterinary Advice Preventative Care Heartworm Dog Disease