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RBak's avatar
RBak
Explorer
Feb 14, 2015

Resuming heartworm preventative without a test ?

This is fir Dr. Doug:

We're heading down to the gulf coast next week and I would like to know if I can resume Heartguard without a test? I stopped it in October due to Andy's upcoming surgery and didn't resume dosing him because it got very cold. Do I need to have him get a test today before giving him the preventative?

Rita

2 Replies

  • RBak's avatar
    RBak
    Explorer
    Feb 14, 2015
    He's on Heartguard. He has had no problem with it in the past. I will probably call my vet and run him out there for a test just to be on the safe side, and hope they get the test results soon - we're leaving Wednesday and I'd like to give him the dose by Monday.
    Thanks Dr. Doug - I've learned my lesson to keep him on preventative all 12 months, even when it zero outside!

    Rita
  • dturm's avatar
    dturm
    Moderator
    Feb 14, 2015
    It depends on the preventive being used :). Heartgard and generics(ivermectin) are often given to heartworm positive dogs before treatment. So while there is a chance of a reaction, it's probably safe. Others can cause such a serious reaction that it would probably be best to test before you go.

    If you keep him on a preventive from here on out, you won't need another test this year.

    Doug, DVM

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