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My dog has heartworm and ran. What immediate symptoms should I expect?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Male | 25 lbs

My dog has heartworm and got out of the house today and ran around. If something were to happen would it happen immediately? Or should I keep an eye on him? And what would happen?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on May 18th, 2017

Sorry to hear that Logan has Heart worm. Usually the clinical signs associated with this condition are respiratory, and we would see them right after a strenuous activity. You would likely see coughing, difficulty breathing, increased abdominal effort, and even fainting in severe instances. If you are not seeing them by now, it is unlikely you will be seeing them at all. Definitely keep a close eye on him and keep his activity level to a minimum until the heart worm has been treated. I would not allow him to run freely at all. I would instead walk him on a leash and harness until matters are cleared up.

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