The Importance of Regular Heartworm Testing for Your Pet

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition that can affect your furry companions, particularly dogs and cats. Spread by infected mosquitoes, heartworms can cause severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to other organs. While heartworm disease is preventable, regular testing is a critical step in ensuring your pet’s long-term health and happiness.
 

What Is Heartworm Disease?

Heartworm disease occurs when pets are bitten by mosquitoes carrying the larvae of the parasite Dirofilaria immitis. Once inside the host, the larvae mature into adult heartworms, which can grow up to 12 inches long. These worms reside in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels, causing significant damage. If left untreated, heartworm disease can be life-threatening.
 

Why Is Heartworm Testing Necessary?

Even if your pet is on heartworm prevention medication, regular testing is essential. Here’s why:
 

• Preventative Medications Aren’t 100% Effective: While highly effective, no preventive medication is foolproof. Missed doses or delayed administration can leave your pet vulnerable to infection.

• Early Detection Saves Lives: Heartworm disease progresses over time, and early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. Testing allows for timely intervention before severe damage occurs.

• Treatment Plans Depend on Accurate Diagnosis: If your pet tests positive for heartworms, the treatment protocol is complex and must be tailored to their specific condition. Regular testing ensures that the disease is caught early, simplifying treatment and improving recovery chances.
   

How Often Should Pets Be Tested for Heartworms?

The American Heartworm Society recommends annual testing for dogs, even if they are on a year-round prevention plan. For cats, testing may be less frequent but is still vital, as they can also be affected by heartworm disease, even though it presents differently than in dogs.
 

What Does Heartworm Testing Involve?

Heartworm testing is a quick and straightforward process. A small blood sample is taken and analyzed for heartworm proteins or antibodies. At Gully Animal Hospital, our skilled veterinary team uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to ensure accurate results and peace of mind.
 

Preventing Heartworm Disease

Regular testing is just one part of protecting your pet from heartworm disease. Preventive medications, administered year-round, are highly effective in reducing the risk of infection. Coupled with routine check-ups and testing, these measures provide a strong defense against this potentially fatal condition.
 

Trust Gully Animal Hospital for Your Pet’s Heartworm Prevention

Regular heartworm testing is an essential part of keeping your pet healthy and safe. By detecting potential infections early and ensuring consistent prevention, you can protect your furry friend from the serious health risks of heartworm disease. We’re committed to providing the care and support your pet needs to thrive. 
 

Schedule your pet’s heartworm test with Gully Animal Hospital and take the next step in safeguarding their health and happiness for years to come. Visit our office in Arlington, Texas, or call (817) 409-6333 to book an appointment today.