Heartworm Medicine - What happens if you miss?

[Doglover8180]

My dog did not take her heartworm medicine for the entire month in November and then she missed her December dose by two days as well, so basically she went 62 days between doses when she should take it every 30 days. How much of a risk does this make her at getting heartworms or any of the other 3 worms that the medicine protects against?

[motherofmolly]

she is at slight risk, but highly unlinkely she will get anything.

[atcwag]

I haven't given my dog heartworm medication in over a year because I can't find one that she doesn't have a horrible reaction to. She just had a check-up at the vet last week and has no issues. I feel horrible, however I'm not going to put her through agony for a preventive medication that she may or may not get. I am now looking into natural heartworm preventatives, which are better for dogs anyways. There is a slight risk, but it is likely that she will be fine.

[chitownmelli]

We are looking into natural too because we gave Duff heartguard and he still ended up with roundworm, I'm pretty sure the box says protects against that, and the doctor said there is no way to prevent it..... sooooooo not only are we switching vets (many reasons I dont like him, aside from that little comment) but our animals have gone basically holistic and all natural like REALLY natural food.

Doglover, I think that your dog will be fine, you should get her caught up since I'm guessing it doesn't freeze and make mosquitoes go away by you, and if it's really bothering you a lot, you can take some of your dogs leavings to the vet to have it tested to be sure. If it would ease your mind a little :)

[Payasita]

im looking into natural too, if any of you find one that works let me know =) thanks

[wendylv5]

Heartworm pills are not 100% guarrenteed to prevent heartworm. I know a woman whos Vet told her that most of the vaccines they use on pets are not needed. This is the first year that I will not over medicate and vaccinate my animals. I will get the require Rabies shot and that is all. I am trying a more holistic approach.

[ivandavgv]

Everyone should also be aware that there is a serious shortage of the medicine to treat animals who have acquired heartworms. Heartworms kill dogs quickly. The health risk of other types of worms such as roundworms pales in comparison. Think long and hard about risking your dog's life by stopping monthly preventatives.

And more northern latitudes don't guarantee safety. Check out the slideshow (below) with a map of reported incidences from the American Heartworm Society. Their board members are all vets. In their FAQ section they also state that no effective natural alternative exists.

Recent news story about treatment shortage: Shortage of Heartworm Medication Keeping Rescue Dogs at Shelters

Maps of U.S. heartworm cases: American Heartworm Society

Thanks!