So, Dizzy is now 7 months and I've had him on heartworm preventative since he was about 12 weeks old. The vet called and wants to do a heartworm blood test. Is this really necessary? They also mentioned his 'pre-neuter bloodwork' which was a bit odd seeing as how I'm not planning on getting him neutered any time soon. I'm waiting until he's at least a year old (unless his retained testicle drops, in which case I will leave him in tact). Anyway, is this blood test really necessary?

IMO if you give heartworm meds as instructed, the blood test shouldn't be necessary. BUT you have to get it or your vet cannot write you a prescription for the heartworm meds. So you have to get it done regardless. As for pre-neuter blood work, I thought they do that just before they neuter. Could be wrong about that, but seems like something they would do closer to the actual surgery.

Yeah the neutering blood work was done of the day of both of mine getting nuetered so maybe they think you plan on scheduling it soon and thats why you got the reminder, so that doesn't seem neccessary.

As far as the heartguard, I would call your vet and just ask if its necessary where they know that he has been on it consistently. My vet will not make Siku get the blood test next year (cause he screams like crazy) as long as they have records that I have been buying it it for every month of the year. Your vets office might do that same if you ask.

My vet does heartworm test at 1 year, 5 years and 10 years old and on request.

SaraB wrote:

IMO if you give heartworm meds as instructed, the blood test shouldn't be necessary. BUT you have to get it or your vet cannot write you a prescription for the heartworm meds. So you have to get it done regardless. As for pre-neuter blood work, I thought they do that just before they neuter. Could be wrong about that, but seems like something they would do closer to the actual surgery.

Thanks, I guess I don't really have a choice with the heartworm test then. I think the pre-neuter bloodwork may have been a mistake and they do it for all 7 month olds. Just the standard 7 month old call. Oh well, I've been wondering what his weight is anyway.

Thanks everybody for the replies!

Sara, are you still showing Elara?

Taking a forced break from showing. Sent you a pm.

Went ahead and went in last night and the vet called today. Surprise, surprise the test was negative and I'm $50 poorer.