Can heartworm disease be prevented?
Heartworm disease is almost 100% preventable by administration of monthly oral or topical medications. Prior to beginning a preventive program, a blood test for the presence of heartworms is necessary. Heartworm prevention must then be given monthly for the remainder of your pet’s life. Retesting for heartworms once a year is strongly recommended for dogs, even if you have given your dog heartworm prevention every month, because they could have a severe and possibly fatal reaction to the medication if heartworms are present.
