Heartworm antigen testing is the most reliable method of confirming that all of the adult heartworms have been eliminated. Although many dogs are antigen-negative 16 weeks after treatment, it can take longer for the antigen to be completely cleared from some dogs.
How long after heartworm treatment do you retest?
Your veterinarian should retest your dog for heartworm disease in 6 months. Usually, your dog can slowly resume activity at this time. Remember that every dog living in an area where heartworms exist needs to receive regular heartworm preventative (usually once monthly, given orally at home).
How long after infection will a dog test positive for heartworm?
The earliest that the heartworm proteins can be detected in a dog's bloodstream is about 5 months after it is bitten by an infected mosquito. Another test detects microfilariae in a dog's bloodstream.
Can a dog recover from being heartworm positive?
Once a dog is infected with heartworms, the treatment and recovery period can be life-threatening and long. In fact, heartworm recovery can take several weeks or even months and is not always possible.
How long does it take to clear heartworms?
The treatment for heartworm disease takes at least 60 days to complete and consists of a series of drug injections that kills the worms.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
Can heartworm treatment fail?How long will a dog test positive for heartworms after treatment?
