Veterinary cardiologist Dr. Marisa Ames, Associate Professor at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and President of the American Heartworm Society, explains what heartworm disease is and why prevention is critical. She emphasizes that heartworm is completely preventable, yet still too common. In dogs, treatment can be costly and may leave lasting, permanent damage. In cats, there is no reliable treatment available. Dr. Ames also breaks down what pet owners should and shouldn’t believe about preventative products.

Plus, a lighter look at pet behavior: should there be a Betty Ford Center for dogs? And can dogs actually become “addicted” to their favorite toys?