Heartworm disease is one of the most serious threats to the health of dogs and cats in Tennessee and across the country. Spread by mosquitoes, heartworms can silently grow and cause irreversible damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Without prevention and early detection, this disease can be life-threatening.
At East Brook Animal Clinic, we emphasize the importance of annual heartworm testing and year-round prevention to ensure your pet lives a long, healthy, and active life.
Why Annual Heartworm Testing Matters
Even pets already on preventive medication should be tested annually. No prevention method is 100% foolproof—doses can be missed, pets may spit out pills, or environmental factors can increase risk. A quick blood test allows us to detect the disease early before it causes severe complications.
If heartworm disease is detected, treatment is possible but can be lengthy, expensive, and carries its own health risks. Prevention and annual testing remain the safest and most affordable ways to protect your pet.
Year-Round Prevention is Essential
Many pet owners mistakenly believe that prevention is only needed during the warmer months. Unfortunately, mosquitoes can survive indoors, in unexpected weather patterns, and in mild winters. That means pets are at risk year-round.
Safe and effective preventive options—such as oral chewables, topical solutions, and long-lasting injections—are available. Our veterinary team will help you choose the best option for your pet’s lifestyle and health needs.
Q&A: Heartworm Disease, Testing, and Prevention
Q: What is heartworm disease?
A: Heartworm disease is a parasitic infection caused by worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. It’s transmitted by mosquito bites and can cause severe organ damage or even death if untreated.
Q: Which pets are at risk?
A: Dogs are the natural host for heartworms, but cats and even ferrets can also be affected. Indoor pets are not immune—mosquitoes can easily enter homes.
Q: Why test if my pet is already on prevention?
A: Even with prevention, missed or late doses, medication resistance, or vomiting up a pill can leave your pet unprotected. Annual testing ensures early detection.
Q: When should my pet start prevention?
A: Puppies should begin prevention as early as 6–8 weeks old, following a veterinary exam. Adult dogs should be tested before starting prevention. Cats should also begin prevention early, as there is no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats—prevention is the only safeguard.
Q: How often should my pet be tested?
A: Dogs should be tested at least once a year, even if they are on prevention. Cats may also be screened depending on risk.
Q: What happens if my pet tests positive?
A: Our veterinarians will develop a tailored treatment plan. Treatment is possible for dogs, but it requires strict rest and monitoring. For cats, supportive care may be recommended, but prevention remains the best option.
Protect Your Pet Today
Don’t wait until symptoms appear—heartworm disease is often advanced before pets show signs. Testing and prevention are simple steps that can save your pet’s life.
📍 East Brook Animal Clinic
2695 Hwy 70 E
Waverly, TN 37185
📞 Call us today at (931) 296-9900 to schedule your pet’s annual heartworm test and discuss prevention options.