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Ask a Vet: Does my dog really need heartworm medication?

 What to know

Heartworm disease, caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, is a serious threat to pets, especially in the southeastern U.S. and the Mississippi River Valley. Vets recommend annual testing and prevention chews for dogs. According to Marisa Ames, a veterinary cardiologist, prevention is nearly 100 percent effective. The American Heartworm Society advises year-round prevention starting at 8 weeks of age.

Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed.

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