Oklahoma Parasite Watch: Local Pets Face High Risk of Heartworm Disease and Ehrlichiosis

OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma (April 2, 2025) – Parasite-related diseases continue to affect Oklahoma’s dogs at an alarming rate, with heartworm and ehrlichiosis cases higher than the state average in several counties. Thrive Pet Healthcare is urging pet owners to keep their pets on parasite preventatives year-round—even those who spend most of their time indoors.

“Heartworm and tick-borne diseases, such as ehrlichiosis, are especially problematic in Oklahoma due to the long, warm seasons and thriving populations of mosquitoes and ticks,” said Dr. Leonardo Baez, Medical Director at Midtown Vets in Oklahoma City, a member of Thrive Pet Healthcare’s community of veterinary hospitals. “It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito or tick to cause a serious illness.”

According to 2024 data from the Companion Animal Parasite Council:

Carried by mosquitoes, heartworm can affect a dog’s heart and lungs. Some dogs show signs such as coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue after moderate activity, or weight loss, but many show no symptoms until the disease is more advanced. Fortunately, it’s very preventable with veterinarian-prescribed preventatives.

A tick-borne illness, ehrlichiosis may cause symptoms in dogs and cats such as low energy, joint pain or changes in appetite. In most cases, it can be treated, especially when caught early.

In Oklahoma:

“Ticks can be incredibly resilient and often go unnoticed until symptoms appear,” Dr. Baez said. “Prevention is key, especially since ehrlichiosis can be difficult to detect early.”

“Approximately 1 in 7 dogs and 1 in 4 cats have fleas, which can lead to itchy skin, tapeworm infections, or other health issues,” said Dr. Baez. “Fleas can multiply rapidly inside the home, and ticks can survive for more than 200 days without feeding. Parasites don’t go away just because it’s not summer.”

Veterinarian-prescribed preventatives are the most effective way to protect pets from parasites and the diseases they carry. Until June 30, 2025, participating Thrive Pet Healthcare hospitals are offering 15% off in-hospital purchases of popular parasite preventatives, including:

With a Thrive Plus membership, year-round protection is more accessible and affordable for pet parents. Member pets receive unlimited free exams,* $5 basic nail trims, and 10% off services like bloodwork, dental cleanings and spay/neuter—making it easier to stay on top of health concerns before they become serious.

Visit thrivepetcare.com to find a location near you that offers primary, specialty, emergency, and urgent veterinary care services, as well as participating Thrive Plus membership hospitals.