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My chocolate lab might have heartworms. What should I do next?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 70 lbs

I have a chocolate lab that I think may have heart worms? I have a few short videos of him also

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 21st, 2018

Unfortunately, videos cannot load onto the PetCoach platform, so I am unable to see Hershey's current behaviors. However, the only way to diagnose heartworm disease is through blood tests that determine if the antibodies or antigens (depending on the test) of adult heartworms are present. Nearly every vet is able to perform this blood test at the time of an appointment, so I strongly recommend taking Hershey to his vet if heartworm disease is suspected. Dogs with heartworm disease may experience coughing, exercise intolerance, weight loss, among other signs. Heartworm disease is a very serious condition, and is fatal if left untreated. This website has some great information for further reading: https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources . I hope that all goes well for Hershey!

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