The Vet Practice

Heartworm disease can be fatal if left untreated. What makes it particularly dangerous is the fact that symptoms won't be obvious until quite a bit of damage has occured and your dog is already quite sick.

It can easily be prevented through giving regular monthly medications (orally or topically) depending on the product OR as a yearly injection.

IMPORTANT

The medications are only effective for the specific period they are given.

So monthly medications only last one month and yearly injections last only One Year!

If you are like some people and forget a monthly dose or two - your dog can be at risk.

It's one medication you really can't stop and start again without the risk of a potential infection in the interim.

If you have stopped giving the medications as directed by the product - you should see your vet about whether a test is necessary. This will depend on how long it's been between stopping and starting medications and the specific product you're using.

Each product will have a "safe period" or reachback period so advice should be sought before restarting the medication again.

Forget monthly medication easily? - We recommend the Yearly injection.

Heartworm prevention can and should start from 3 months of age. No test is necessary if starting at this age.

For more specific information about Heartworm Disease and Prevention  - Please ask your Vet.