Purchasing Heartworm Preventative

posted: by: BH Tags: "Clinic Specials" "News" 

Why should you purchase your pet's heartworm preventative from a veterinarian instead of an internet pharmacy?

There is a very, very simple answer!  The pharmaceutical companies that make heartworm preventatives will guarantee their products when you purchase from your veterinarian, but will not guarantee products purchased through Internet pharmacies.  We know that nothing in life is 100%, and the same is true of heartworm preventatives.  Regular and consistent use of heartworm prevention remains our best tactic in the battle against heartworm disease, but it is possible, though rare, for a pet who is on heartworm prevention to contract the disease.

If your pet tests positive for heartworms, and your veterinary records indicate consistent use of preventatives and annual heartworm testing, then the pharmaceutical company is willing to pay toward your pet's treatment expenses, offsetting the cost significantly.  We have never experienced a problem with any of these companies when it comes to this guarantee.

In order to establish a guarantee against heartworms, your pet will need to have an annual heartworm test (new pets must show negative for heartworms prior to starting use of the product).  You will also need to show a clear purchase history, indicating that the product was purchased at consistent intervals and doses of preventative were not missed.

Regardless of  the "consumer beware" warning of purchasing from companies you are not familiar with, the guarantee from your pet's heartworm prevention company is the most important benefit of purchasing products from your veterinarian.  We live in a region where heartworm disease is on the rise.  Studies are being conducted in an attempt to reduce the risk.  In the meantime, please protect your pet and yourself from the devastation of heartworm disease.  No one wants to see their pet experience a chemo-type treatment for heartworms.  Moreover, no one wants a financial stress added to your emotional stress.  Purchase your heartworm product through your veterinarian and follow the rules.  In the end, your pet benefits.