Heartworm disease is a silent threat—one that often progresses unnoticed until it's advanced and much harder to treat. Routine heartworm testing is a non-negotiable part of responsible pet care. At Hampton Park Veterinary Hospital, we often hear pet owners say things like, “My dog seems healthy—do they really need to be tested every year?” The answer is a resounding yes. By understanding what a heartworm test involves and why it’s so important, we hope that more pet owners will choose to have their pet tested for heartworm disease and be consistent on heartworm preventatives.
Why Do Pets Need Heartworm Testing?
Even pets on year-round prevention can become infected due to missed or late doses or secretly vomiting up the medication. Regular testing verifies that your pet hasn’t developed a hidden infection that could quietly damage their heart, lungs, and other organs.
- Early detection saves lives. Heartworms can cause irreversible damage if not caught in time.
- Not all heartworm preventatives are foolproof: No prevention method is 100% guaranteed.
- Symptoms of heartworm disease don’t appear right away. Pets can look perfectly healthy while heartworms develop.
- Heartworm treatment is safer when started early. Advanced infections are harder—and riskier—to treat.
When Should Your Pet Be Tested for Heartworm Disease?
Dogs should be tested annually, even if they are on consistent preventative medication. Puppies older than 7 months should be tested before starting heartworm prevention and then tested annually. Rescue or newly adopted dogs should be tested, regardless of age or history. Your veterinarian may also recommend additional tests if your pet has experienced unusual symptoms or if the vet suspects your dog is infected.
Cats are less commonly infected with heartworm disease than dogs. They can still get heartworm, but testing is more difficult. Heartworm testing in cats, when necessary, often involves blood tests, X-rays, and even echocardiography.
Understanding Heartworm Tests and Results
Heartworm testing for dogs is quick and can be completed during any wellness visit at the vet clinic. A small blood sample is taken, usually from the leg or neck. This blood sample is used for a heartworm antigen test that looks for proteins released by adult female heartworms. Results are usually available within minutes. If your pup tests positive for heartworm disease, your vet may recommend further bloodwork, X-rays, or ultrasounds to determine the severity of the infection and plan the appropriate treatment.
If your dog tests positive for heartworms, treatment is possible, but it must be handled carefully. Heartworm disease treatment usually includes:
- Restricting exercise immediately to reduce stress on the heart.
- Starting a treatment protocol with medications to kill adult worms and larvae.
- Ongoing monitoring and follow-up tests.
For cats, treatment is more complex, as there is no approved drug to eliminate heartworms. Instead, supportive care is given to manage symptoms.
Heartworm Prevention Can Make A Difference
Think of heartworm prevention as a two-part safety net: testing makes sure that your pet is not already infected, while parasite prevention keeps new infections from developing. These two elements work hand in hand to create the most effective protection possible. Annual heartworm testing gives veterinarians the information needed to safely prescribe preventatives. Once your pet tests negative, the next step is consistent, year-round heartworm prevention through monthly tablets or heartworm prevention injections (available for dogs only).
A Heartworm Test Could Save Your Pet’s Life
Heartworm disease often shows no signs until it’s dangerously advanced—but one simple test can change everything. By staying on top of your pet’s heartworm testing each year at Hampton Park Veterinary Hospital, you’re choosing safety and long-term health. Is your pet due for their heartworm test? Contact us today to book a quick, easy appointment in Hampton Park, VIC and protect your furry companion year-round.