Ask the Vet | 3 Ways to Lower Your Dog’s Heartworm Treatment Cost

Heartworm treatment cost for your dog may vary greatly, depending upon a number of factors. Typically, heartworm medicine and treatment can cost in the hundreds, or even thousands. While the cost may be steep, it’s important to recognize heartworm symptoms in your pet and act upon them immediately, as heartworm is a fatal condition. In order to keep your treatment costs down, it is beneficial to work toward preventing your animal from contracting the condition in the first place. Otherwise, discount pet meds and natural heartworm treatment methods may be helpful in reducing overall costs.

1. Prevention
The easiest and cheapest way to treat heartworm is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. There are a wide variety of preventative heartworm medicines that can suit any budget and dosage plan. Prevent heartworm in your dog by giving it a chewable capsule daily/monthly, by applying a monthly topical medication, or by injection at your vet’s office once a year.
The cost of each of these preventative measures varies depending upon your dog’s medical history, its breed and its size. Consult with a veterinarian to learn the most inexpensive preventative measures for your dog.

2. Diagnostic Tests
One of the most expensive elements of a heartworm treatment program is the diagnosis of the condition itself. A veterinarian must run a series of examinations, blood tests and x-rays, all of which are expensive. Keep your pet’s medical records updated and handy in order to ensure that you do not need to have any superfluous tests run for your pet.

3. Treatment Methods for Heartworm
The cost of heartworm treatment is a substantial portion of the total cost. In addition to the standard surgery or medical costs, your pet will most likely have to remain in the hospital for one or more nights. These costs can add up quickly. If you prefer not to put your pet through a surgical procedure, or if the cost is prohibitive, consider using an effective heartworm treatment method that suits your pet.
Heartworm is a serious condition and should not be taken lightly. If you suspect that your dog has heartworm, it is important to have it  tested. While prevention is the cheapest and most successful tactic, consult with your veterinarian for ways to reduce the costs of diagnosis and treatment, should they become necessary.

Hope this helps
Till next week
Dr Ruan

Ask the Vet:
Royal Veterinary Centre
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Email: royalveterinary@gmail.com