12/11/2024
The big question is was this a local dog or an imported dog?
Something else to be diligent on as being preventive is always better then having to be reactive to a disease.
This is something we don't see very often...a positive heartworm test.
One blood sample can be used with an in hospital 4DX test to check for 4 different diseases...Lyme, Ehrlichia, Anaplasmosis and Heartworm. And although positive results for the first three have become increasingly more frequent (they are tick borne diseases), heartworm remains a little unusual. It is a condition more commonly found in warmer climates ( the Southern US and Mexico, for example.) Treatments for this patient will depend on several factors, including the stage and severity of the disease.
The good news? Many medications used for flea and tick prevention also protect against heartworm as well! No extra steps needed 🙂 You can check with your family veterinary team if you have questions or concerns about your dog's coverage.
(Edited to add - we will not be divulging any private details regarding this patient.)
