Heartworm
Prevention Protocol
For
all our clients with canine companions, we wish to inform you of the latest
protocol for HEARTWORM TESTING & PREVENTION. We are now using a test that
checks for Heartworm, Lyme Disease, and a less common tick- borne disease called
Ehrlichiosis. The current recommendation is to test dogs in
heartworm-endemic areas once every two years instead of annually, with the
monthly preventative medication (Heartgard or Interceptor) given all 12 months
of the year rather than the traditional 7 doses recommended previously. We
anticipate that this will result in greater convenience for you and your dog
since you will not be required to return for an extra visit each spring for
heartworm testing. From now on, the blood test for heartworm disease will be
done with every other annual vaccination, regardless of the month, and you will
be offered a year's supply of the preventative medication. In addition to
receiving optimal protection against this blood-borne parasite, your dog will
also be provided with monthly year-round parasite control against some of the
most common intestinal worms. We still recommend an annual fecal sample
examination since not all internal parasites are controlled by heartworm
prophylaxis.
We now will start testing all dogs once
they have reached 7 months of age, regardless of their birth month, and will
test them every two years thereafter as long as each of their monthly prevention
doses has been properly administered. However, if your pet misses a few doses
during the course of the year, our doctors may recommend an additional blood
test to assure your pet's safety.
Remember to use the reminder stickers
on your calendars to help you give your pet his or her monthly dosage. Please
ask our staff for assistance if you have any questions about the new recommended
protocol, and rest assured that we strive, as always, to provide the best care
for your four-footed friends.
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