When does bloodtesting for heartworm disease commence for dogs?
Since all dogs should be administered once-a-month Heartworm Preventive medication for at least the Spring to Fall period, veterinary practices have historically tested for Heartworm Disease in the spring period prior to dogs commencing preventive medication. While spring testing will continue for dogs commencing Heartworm preventive medication for the first time (e.g. puppies, adult dogs not tested in the previous year, etc.), dogs screened for Heartworm disease in the prior year may now have their blood test performed at the time of their annual check-up & vaccination visit.
