heartworm
Americannoun
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a parasitic nematode, Dirofilaria immitis, transmitted by mosquito and invading the heart and pulmonary arteries of dogs, wolves, and foxes throughout its range in tropical, subtropical and, more recently, temperate regions around the world.
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the disease caused by infection with heartworm.
noun
Etymology
Origin of heartworm
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Three months and one heartworm treatment later, I carried Bob to the adoption event in Prospect Park.
From Slate ● Sep. 4, 2025
These guys can carry heartworm, which can be devastating to a dog that hasn’t been treated with preventive medicine.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 6, 2024
Beyond the itchiness, they spread serious diseases and can even transmit heartworm to cats and dogs.
From The Verge ● Jun. 3, 2022
A recent Facebook post from the KC Pet Project in Kansas City, Mo., featured a blind elderly pit bull abandoned with heartworm and in poor physical condition.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 26, 2021
He was only 10, but he had prostate cancer that metastasized into his lungs, a urinary tract infection and severe arthritis, plus he was heartworm positive.
From Washington Times ● May 1, 2017
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