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My dog has heartworm. How to treat it without breaking the bank?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bulldog | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 160 lbs

How can i treat my dog for heartworm if I can't afford the medication prescribed by the vet. I'm a single parent and only make min wage income. My dog is sick and I don't know what to do to help him without his medicine. Please give me info on any or all alternatives that can treat or kill adult heartworms!

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 24th, 2017

Melarsomine is the only medication that can kill adult heartworms, and there unfortunately is not a less expensive option. Sometimes veterinarians will discuss what is commonly known as a 'slow kill' method, but in reality this means starting an antibiotic to weaken the heartworms and then giving a monthly preventative and waiting for the heartworms to die on their own. Some veterinarians do not recommend this due to the potential to develop resistant heartworm infections. If Waylon is not symptomatic this might be an option. He would be at risk for developing side effects from the dying heartworms for 1-2 years and exercise restriction is recommended during that time. You should talk to your veterinarian and ask about all of your different options, and you could also try contacting rescue groups in your area to see if there are any that could help with heartworm treatment. You also may want to look into Care Credit (www.carecredit.com).

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28Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    If Waylon currently has a heartworm infection he needs to be under the direct supervision of a veterinarian for treatment. Heartworm treatment requires delicate care as killing off the worms too quickly can cause them to break off into the smaller blood vessels, leading to blockages which can cause stroke or even death depending on where they are. Most heartworm treatment requires a slow course of medications and close monitoring over a period of weeks to successfully be treated. Attempting to treat on your own is dangerous and can be deadly. If you are having trouble affording veterinary, this site can help give you some ideas to help make it more affordable so that Waylon can get the care he needs: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

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    17Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 26th, 2017

    I personally as well don't recommend the slow kill method simply because heartworm disease is so serous and deadly. If you cannot afford the other two immiticide injections, then you really have no choice but to continue on the ivermectin and doxycycline. You can try to save up to afford the other two rounds of injections, see if your vet accepts payment plans, or you can apply for Care Credit. I also have a few other resources I can give you that may help you afford the injections: God's Creatures Ministry helps pay for veterinarian bills for those who need help.
 The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has many programs including helping people with medical bills. They are a good resource for information.
 Brown Dog Foundation provides funding to families with a sick pet that would likely respond to treatment, but due to circumstances, there is not enough money immediately available to pay. I hope one of these helps you! Good luck with Lucy and I hope she recovers fully.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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