Heartworm test for dogs at home

The American Heartworm Society makes this easy with their “think 12:” tagline. (1) get your pet tested every 12 months for heartworm and (2) give your pet heartworm preventive 12 months a year.

What is heartworm?

Heartworm is a parasitic infection that primarily affects dogs, though it can also affect cats and some other animals. It is caused by a species of roundworm called Dirofilaria immitis, which is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Here's why it's important for dog owners to screen for heartworm and take preventive measures:

Serious Health Threat: Heartworm disease can be life-threatening for dogs. When a dog is infected, these worms grow and live in the heart, lungs, and nearby blood vessels. Over time, the worms can cause severe damage to these organs, leading to heart and lung disease.
Costly and Challenging Treatment: Treating heartworm disease in dogs can be expensive and difficult. It typically involves a series of injections to kill the adult worms, and the treatment may require hospitalization and strict rest. In advanced cases, treatment may not be effective, making prevention crucial.
Risk to Other Pets: Infected dogs can serve as reservoirs for heartworms, increasing the risk of infection for other dogs in the area. Cats can also contract heartworm disease, although it's less common. Preventing infection in one dog can help protect others in the community.
Preventable Disease: Heartworm disease is entirely preventable with the use of preventive medications. Regular screening helps ensure that preventive measures are working and that the dog remains free of infection.
Early Detection: Screening for heartworms allows for the early detection of the disease, often before clinical symptoms appear. Early intervention provides a better chance of successful treatment and recovery.
Compliance with Prevention: Regular screening encourages dog owners to administer preventive medications consistently and correctly. Skipping doses or failing to provide preventive treatment can leave a dog vulnerable to infection.
Peace of Mind: Regular testing and prevention give dog owners peace of mind, knowing that they are taking steps to protect their pet from a potentially deadly disease.

The American Heartworm Society recommends annual heartworm testing for all dogs, even those on preventive medications, to ensure they remain free of infection. Testing typically involves a blood test to detect the presence of heartworm proteins or microfilariae (immature heartworms) in the bloodstream.

Prevention is key to safeguarding dogs from heartworm disease, and it is always more straightforward, less expensive, and less risky than treatment. Consult with a veterinarian to establish a heartworm prevention plan for your dog and to ensure they receive regular testing to monitor their heartworm status.

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Heartworm test for dogs at home

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