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CVETS Cardiology Services
Heartworm Extraction for Dogs
Every second counts.
Emergency Expertise for a Life-Threatening Condition
When heartworms migrate into the heart itself, dogs can develop Caval Syndrome—a critical, often fatal condition. At this stage, medications won’t work, and surgery becomes the only option. Heartworm extraction relieves the obstruction in the heart, but follow-up treatment is still needed to address the remaining infection in the lungs. Without surgery, most dogs with caval syndrome won’t survive more than a few days.
CVETS offers veterinary heartworm extraction service in Columbia, performed by our board-certified cardiologist, Dr. Rebecca Kennerly, using state-of-the-art imaging and catheter-based techniques to safely remove heartworms in emergency scenarios.
What Is Heartworm Extraction?
In the most advanced cases of heartworm disease (Class 4 or Caval Syndrome), adult worms obstruct blood flow within the heart. If left untreated, this can result in heart failure and sudden death. Heartworm extraction is a minimally invasive procedure that physically removes the mass of worms from the heart using a catheter inserted through a vein—often in the neck. This approach provides immediate relief and can be life-saving in critical cases.
Signs Your Dog May Need Emergency Extraction
Dogs with Caval Syndrome from heartworm disease may show symptoms such as:
- Difficulty breathing/Panting
- Coughing (sometimes with blood)
- Pale/yellow gums
- Sudden collapse or weakness
- Swollen belly (due to fluid accumulation)
- Signs of Shock
How the Procedure Works
This is a catheter-based procedure performed under general anesthesia. Here's how it works:
A catheter is inserted into the jugular vein and advanced toward the heart using real-time imaging (fluoroscopy).
Specialized tools are used to capture and remove adult heartworms without opening the chest.
Your dog is closely monitored before, during, and after the procedure to ensure a stable recovery.
The procedure is performed by our board-certified veterinary cardiologist with support from a full emergency and surgical team.
Aftercare & Recovery
Recovery focuses on stabilization, rest, and long-term heartworm treatment:
- Hospital Stay: Most pets remain hospitalized for monitoring 24–48 hours after the procedure
- Activity restriction should be continued throughout the entire heartworm treatment period (typically 6 months).
- Prevention: Ongoing monthly preventatives are essential to prevent reinfection.
- Follow-Ups: We’ll guide you through recheck visits, bloodwork, and your dog must still continue heartworm treatment by following the American Heartworm Society protocol.
Risks & Outcomes
For dogs with Caval Syndrome, surgical extraction is often the only chance at survival—and when performed promptly, it can be remarkably effective. While the risks are real, they reflect the critical condition of these patients, not the procedure itself.
At CVETS, your pet is in the hands of a highly trained team using advanced imaging, real-time monitoring, and specialized tools to maximize safety and success. Many dogs go on to recover well and regain quality of life after surgery and continued treatment. Risks may include:
- Incomplete removal of all heartworms
- Embolism (worms breaking and traveling to the lungs)
- Bleeding or arrhythmia during the procedure
Our expert team uses advanced imaging and surgical precision to minimize risks and improve outcomes. Many pets go on to live healthy, comfortable lives with proper follow-up care.
Cost & Financing Options
Emergency procedures can be unexpected and stressful. We offer financing through CareCredit and Scratch Pay to help make life-saving care more accessible—because no family should have to choose between cost and care.
Meet Our Veterinary Cardiologist
Rebecca Kennerly, DVM, DACVIM-C
- Board-Certified Cardiologist: Dr. Kennerly completed a rigorous three-year cardiology residency, specializing in advanced heart care for pets.
- Award-Winning Academia: Graduating valedictorian from veterinary school, she brings a top-tier educational background to every case.
- Comprehensive Cardiac Expertise: From managing chronic heart conditions to emergency care and pacemaker implants, she offers a full spectrum of cardiology services.
Act Fast—Every Second Counts
If your dog has been diagnosed with advanced heartworm disease or is showing signs of Caval Syndrome, call us immediately at (803) 995-8913.
Early action can save lives.
