The American Heartworm Society recommends annual heartworm testing. It's important to never give Heartgard to any pet that has not been tested for heartworm disease. Heartworm preventative medication such as Heartgard cannot kill adult heartworms, but instead kills the baby heartworms known as microfilariae.
Can you give a dog heartworm medicine without testing?
Puppies under 7 months of age can be started on heartworm prevention without a heartworm test (it takes at least 6 months for a dog to test positive after it has been infected), but should be tested 6 months after your initial visit, tested again 6 months later and yearly after that to ensure they are heartworm-free.
Do dogs need a blood test for heartworm?
The preventatives will not kill adult heartworms, so the only way to be sure your pet is free of heartworm disease is to have the blood test performed.
Can I just give my dog heartworm medicine?
If at the initial test, your dog is found to have heartworms, treatment will be needed before prevention can begin. However, if your dog is in the clear, he can be started on monthly medication to protect him from the disease.
Can you get heartworm medication without a vet prescription?
Purchasing Medications Without a Prescription. All effective heartworm medications require a prescription in the United States. It is illegal to obtain an FDA-approved prescription medication without a prescription.
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