As a dedicated pet owner in Houston, you might wonder if heartworm disease is really a concern during the milder winter months. After all, isn’t heartworm more of a summertime problem? The truth is, Houston’s climate makes heartworm a year-round risk for both dogs and cats—even when January mornings feel cool and comfortable. At CityVAX, our mobile, low-cost pet vaccination clinic is committed to helping families across Houston and surrounding communities keep their pets safe from heartworm, no matter the season. With convenient, walk-in pop-up events—no appointment needed—and compassionate veterinary professionals ready to answer your questions, protecting your furry family members has never been easier or more affordable. This blog will explain why winter is not a break from heartworm prevention, what symptoms to watch for, and how CityVAX’s mobile services can simplify your pet’s year-round protection.
Houston’s winters are known for mild temperatures and occasional humid days, which might seem like a relief after our long, hot summers. However, these conditions allow mosquitoes—the carriers of heartworm larvae—to survive and remain active nearly all year long. Many pet owners are surprised to learn that heartworm transmission can happen even in the cooler months, especially when there are brief warm spells.
Signs that your pet may be at risk or already developing heartworm disease can be subtle at first. In dogs, early symptoms include a mild, persistent cough, unusual tiredness after moderate activity, reduced appetite, and gradual weight loss. As the disease progresses, you might notice signs such as difficulty breathing, a swollen belly from fluid buildup, or even collapse in severe cases. Cats may show symptoms like coughing, vomiting, weight loss, or sudden respiratory distress; sometimes, the first sign in cats can be sudden collapse or even death, making prevention especially important.
If your pet spends any time outdoors—even for short bathroom breaks or walks—mosquito exposure is nearly unavoidable in Houston. Pets living in apartments, houses, or any neighborhood from Midtown to the Medical Center all face similar risks because mosquitoes can find their way inside and thrive during our unpredictable winters.
Heartworm disease is caused by a parasite (Dirofilaria immitis) that is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. After a pet is bitten, heartworm larvae enter the bloodstream and begin developing over several months, eventually migrating to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. The process is slow; it can take six months or more for worms to mature into adults, but once established, they cause significant damage to your pet’s organs.
Houston’s climate rarely stays cold enough for long periods to kill off mosquitoes. Even during the winter, occasional warm spells allow mosquito populations to rebound, and any pet left unprotected can be bitten and infected. Misconceptions about heartworm being a “summer-only” disease can leave pets vulnerable, as even a short lapse in prevention can create a window for infection.
Cats and dogs both face risk, but the disease presents differently in each species. Cats are not the typical host, so even small numbers of heartworms can cause severe, sometimes fatal reactions. In dogs, heartworm disease progresses more slowly but can be just as deadly if left untreated.
Protecting your pet from heartworm is a straightforward process when you have access to affordable, convenient veterinary care. At CityVAX, our mobile clinics offer heartworm testing, vaccinations, microchipping, and parasite prevention at various pop-up events throughout Houston and surrounding communities. Our veterinary professionals understand the unique risks faced by local pets and are dedicated to making preventive care accessible to everyone.
Heartworm testing is essential, especially before starting or resuming prevention medication. In dogs, we recommend annual heartworm testing to ensure they remain free of infection. If you miss a dose of prevention or have a new pet, our team can provide quick, reliable testing results and guide you on the best next steps. For more information on our heartworm testing services, you can visit our website or ask our team at your next pop-up visit.
Preventive medications are given monthly and are the most effective way to protect your pet from heartworm disease. We offer guidance on choosing the right product for your pet’s needs and can assist with affordable options through our online pharmacy. At our mobile clinics, you can access these services without the need for a traditional appointment, reducing stress for both you and your pet.
CityVAX also specializes in parasite prevention and control services that target heartworms, intestinal worms, fleas, and ticks, providing comprehensive protection tailored to Houston’s environment. Our pop-up events are designed to be quick, convenient, and welcoming for families with busy schedules.
Keeping your pet safe from heartworm is a partnership between you and your veterinary team. The foundation of prevention is consistent, year-round use of heartworm preventive medication—even when it feels like “mosquito season” is over. Skipping doses, even during the winter, can leave your pet at risk.
Along with monthly medication, regular heartworm testing is vital, especially if you have missed a dose or adopted a new pet with an unknown prevention history. Our mobile clinics make it easy to stay on schedule, offering walk-in services throughout the year across Houston and surrounding communities.
At home, you can reduce mosquito exposure by keeping pets indoors during peak mosquito activity, using screens on windows and doors, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. However, these steps only supplement—not replace—the need for medication and professional testing. Houston’s unpredictable weather and active mosquito population make it impossible to guarantee a mosquito-free environment, even in winter.
Our veterinary professionals are always available to answer your questions about heartworm prevention and help you develop a practical routine that fits your family’s lifestyle. By working together, we can create a seamless plan for your pet’s health, no matter the season.
If you notice any of the symptoms described earlier—such as coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, or unexplained weight loss in your pet—it is important to consult a veterinary professional as soon as possible. While these signs can be caused by various conditions, heartworm disease must be ruled out, especially in Houston’s year-round risk environment.
Pets who have missed one or more doses of heartworm prevention, have never been tested, or are new to your home should be evaluated promptly. Early detection allows for better outcomes and ensures that your pet receives appropriate care tailored to their needs.
CityVAX’s mobile pop-up clinics make it simple to access heartworm testing and prevention without the stress of scheduling or long clinic waits. Our veterinary team provides compassionate, personalized care in a convenient setting, reducing anxiety for pets and their families. For the latest information on our clinic locations and times, visit our schedule and locations page.
If your pet is displaying any worrisome signs, or if you have concerns about their heartworm prevention status, do not wait. Our team is here to help guide you through the next steps and provide the care your pet deserves.
The mild winters and active mosquito populations in Houston mean that heartworm prevention is never out of season. Consistent monthly medication, annual testing, and professional guidance are the most effective ways to ensure your pet stays healthy and heartworm-free. CityVAX’s mobile, low-cost vaccination clinics are designed to eliminate barriers to care, offering walk-in services, extended hours, and a caring team of veterinary professionals committed to your pet’s wellbeing.
When searching for a mobile vet near me, choosing a provider who understands Houston’s unique risks and offers convenient, stress-free solutions can make all the difference. At CityVAX, we proudly serve Houston and surrounding communities, making it easier than ever to keep your pets safe throughout the winter and beyond.
If you are ready to protect your pet from heartworm disease or have questions about prevention, visit one of our upcoming pop-up clinics. No appointment is needed—just bring your pet and let our veterinary team provide the care and reassurance you deserve. For more details on our services or to find a clinic near you, call (832) 281-0559 or check our schedule and locations page. Let CityVAX help you give your furry family member a healthier, happier life—all year long.
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a licensed veterinarian. Always consult with a veterinary professional for specific guidance on your pet’s health and heartworm prevention.
