Embedded Files
Heartworm Treatment
Heartworm Treatment
when we get a dog into the rescue who is heartworm (HW) positive, we follow this protocol:
Dogs MUST be on regular monthly prevention
They will need a vet apt in the first few days to get doxycycline, a needed drug they must take before their treatment.. We prefer to use Peak City Vet or Harmony Rescue Clinic for HW treatment. Please ask your coordinator for this apt.
If the dog is healthy and is not spayed / neutered we try to do this before the treatment
If this dog is adopted in the middle of the protocole, PIPs will cover the treatment at a PIPs approved vet. Please make sure the adoptions team and your potential adopter knows that they are heartworm positive.
Day 1
Day 1
Administer appropriate heartworm preventive
Days 1–28
Days 1–28
Administer doxycycline 10 mg/kg BID for 4 weeks (or dose prescribed by vet)
(this Reduces pathology associated with dead heartworms and Disrupts heartworm transmission )
Day 30
Day 30
Administer appropriate heartworm preventive
Day 61
Day 61
Administer appropriate heartworm preventive
Vet visit for an overnight stay for injections. Injections are given the first day and then 24 hours after the first.
Day 62
Day 62
At vet for 2nd injection
For 6-8 weeks post HW treatment
For 6-8 weeks post HW treatment
Dog must have limited exercise. The dogs heart rate should not get up, should stay calm, no running, no long walks. Short leash walks. (let rescue know if this is becoming a concern)
4-6 months post HW treatment
4-6 months post HW treatment
HW test with the vet. If this comes back negative, then another test will be performed at a time interval the vet feels is appropriate
If the dog is adopted in the middle of any of this protocol then we should send the medical email for HW treatment. If the adopter wants to use our vet for treatment then the apt time and vet should be shared with the adopter and this would be covered by the rescue. If treatment is continued at a vet outside of our vets this is the owner's expense.
Dogs MUST stay on prevention during the ENTIRE treatment and for the rest of their lives.
HW=Heartworm
HW treatment=injections given by the vet
HW Prevention=monthly pill given orally.
Page updated
Report abuse