We always get asked why heartworm testing is needed for
pets that are on prevention monthly. The
American Heartworm Society recommends pets are tested annually. Early detection
of heartworm disease minimizes the damage to the heart and lungs. The
importance of yearly testing has always been that heartworm prevention is not
100% and there is a risk of exposure. We
have always had concern for pets not eating the whole chew or vomiting the
tablet after getting it, and therefore not being protected, but now there is
concern for resistance to the heartworm preventions.
Most of the manufacturers of
heartworm prevention offer a guarantee with their medication if you have your
pet tested annually. If your dog has a positive heartworm test while on their
prevention, they will pay for 100% of the treatment to eliminate the disease.
Otherwise, the treatment can be very costly.
Heartworm prevention should
be given minimally April 1st to December 1st in this
area, but year round treatment is better.
