Heartworm testing and meds?

Question

I got a puppy last fall. As it was fall we didn't bother with testing or preventative meds for heartworm.

When should you start giving the medication in the spring?

IE. when should I take him to the vet for tests and to get the meds?

Ok.... to clarify, I have maintained all shots.

We live somewhere where it is below 0C from pretty much October - March.

I got the puppy under 6 months in October and was advised that the testing and meds could wait until spring.

I guess my question would be when is Spring for this purpose?

Answer 1

Heartworm prevention is best given year round in most areas.
The American Heartworm Society recommends year round prevention for all dogs.
Puppies should be tested once they are over 6 months old and then started on preventative.
If a month of preventative is missed, it is recommended to test again 6 months from the missed dose.
If a heartworm prevention is given year round without any missed doses, and your dog has a negative test for 2 years in a row, our practice allows testing to be done every other year unless adose is missed.

Answer 2

You should get him tested again before starting the preventative because if he does have heartworm the preventative could harm him also remember if you are in that area where heartworm is a problem you need to stay ontop of the prevention treatment.

Answer 3

You can test your pet at the vet now and start the meds. In NY where I live we test yearly, however, due to recent surge of heartworm positive dogs in the area, we are giving prevention year round now.

Answer 4

It is actually best to give heartworm medication year round. However, if you are going to just give it to him for part of the year, I would take him now. Generally give them heartworm prevention from March to October, if you are only doing it seasonally.

Answer 5

Now will be a good time. They will have to do some blood work to check for heartworms. After you dog is clear of heartworms they will give you medicine to treat your dog once a month. I also wanted to tell you that I use Revolution...That takes care of fleas, ticks, ear mites. Cost a little more but it takes care of so much.

Answer 6

First take your pup into the vets for a check up. You should do this now! They will do the heart worm test there and then they will give you the right dose for your pup according to his weight. Don't forget to get some flea and tick preventive too.

Answer 7

If you have been taking the puppy to get his regular puppy shots than your vet should have already discussed this with you.