Missed a Dose of Heartworm Preventative? What to Do About the Risk

Life gets busy, and sometimes even the most responsible pet owners accidentally miss a dose of their pet’s heartworm prevention. If this happens, don’t panic, just take the right steps to keep your pet protected. At Bixby Animal Clinic in Long Beach, CA, our team is here to help you understand what to do next and how to reduce your pet’s risk moving forward.

First: Give the Missed Dose as Soon as You Remember

Most heartworm preventatives work by eliminating larvae that may have entered your pet’s body during the previous month. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as possible unless your veterinarian has instructed otherwise.

Do not double up or give extra medication. Simply resume your regular schedule from the new date and monitor your pet for any unusual signs.

When You Should Schedule a Heartworm Test

If your pet has missed more than one dose, or if you’re unsure how long it has been, it’s safest to schedule a heartworm test with a vet near you. Heartworms take several months to mature, so a test can confirm whether your pet is still protected or if early intervention is needed.

Your veterinarian may recommend retesting in six months as well, because heartworms take time to reach detectable levels.

Why Missing Doses Matters

Here in Long Beach, CA, mosquitoes are active much of the year, which increases the risk of heartworm transmission. Missing even one or two doses can leave pets unprotected during a crucial window. This is especially important because heartworm disease often shows no symptoms until it becomes advanced and harder to treat.

Prevention is not only safer. It’s far more affordable and comfortable for your pet than treatment.

How to Stay on Track Moving Forward

To avoid missed doses in the future, consider:

•             Setting monthly calendar reminders

•             Signing up for reminders from your animal hospital

•             Keeping medication in a visible, consistent place

•             Asking your vet about longer-lasting preventives

Call Our Veterinarians Near You for More Advice

If you’ve missed a dose or have questions about your pet’s protection, our team at Bixby Animal Clinic is here to guide you. Call (562) 426-4066 or visit our veterinarian near you to schedule a heartworm test or review prevention options. Your pet’s health and comfort always come first.