The administration of heartworm preventatives to canines without prior diagnostic evaluation for existing heartworm infection represents a practice with potentially serious health consequences. Heartworm preventatives, while effective against larval stages, are not designed to eliminate adult heartworms. If administered to a dog already infected, a severe reaction, even death, can occur.
Prior diagnostic testing serves as a crucial safeguard. It ensures that the dog is free from adult heartworm infection before preventative medication is initiated. This proactive approach protects the animal’s health by averting potential adverse reactions linked to the rapid destruction of microfilariae (immature heartworms) in an already infected animal. Veterinarians emphasize the importance of regular testing to maintain the efficacy and safety of heartworm prevention protocols.
