Heartworm Testing and Prevention
DVPH follows the recommendations of the National Heartworm Symposium.
- For our geographic region, we recommend all puppies begin monthly heartworm medicine by 16 weeks of age.
- Heartworm medications need to be given year round.
- As added protection, heartworm testing (a simple blood test) is advised annually, even with year-round prevention, at the time of routine vaccinations.
Flea and Tick Prevention
It only takes one warm day to bring about fleas and ticks, thus DPVH advises giving year-round preventive care. Recommended products include:
- Nexgard for puppies until six months of age.
- Bravecto for mature dogs, given every 12 weeks.
- Revolution for cats and kittens, given monthly.