My dog took heartworm pill by accident, no test. Will he be okay?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 85 lbs
I accidentally gave my dog a heartworm pill, thinking I was giving g a flea pill. The problem is I haven't given him one since October, and haven't had a heartworm test since beginning of last year! I'm worried sick I have harmed my boy!!
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 9th, 2017
Murphy should be fine, especially if you are not in a heartworm endemic area. The meds will kill any circulating juveniles (microfilariae). Be sure to have him properly tested before the next dose. It takes 5-8 months for a female heartworm to mature into a reproducing adult. Ideally, every dog should be tested every 6 months but since most dogs are on meds year round (for the added intestinal parasite protection), once yearly testing is typical.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 28th, 2022
Anytime heartworm prevention is late or missed, there is a chance of acquiring heartworm disease. Given your southern zip code, you're in an area of a much higher incidence of heartworm disease relative to those of us further north. With that said, I don't think you need to panic! Since your puppy is still so young, they're too young to run a terribly accurate test for the presence of heartworms. The tests that we use as a screening tool check for the antigen from adult female heartworms, which take at least 5-6 months post infection to show up on a test. My point being, I think it's worth asking your vet to run a heartworm test on your pup in another 6 months. In the meantime, certainly continue giving the heartworm preventive medication consistently every month. Remember that as your puppy grows, their dose will change, so keep in touch with your vet regarding your puppy's current weight and dosage. I hope this helps to clear up any confusion and that everything goes well for your pup!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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