The most accurate heartworm test is the external lab tests. In-clinic tests are also very accurate, with roughly 98 to 99 percent accuracy.

There is a confirmatory test that can be sent to an outside lab. The in-clinic tests are very accurate and sensitive, usually around 98 to 99 percent accurate. However, if a pet has consistently been on heartworm prevention and tests positive, a confirmatory test will often be sent out to make sure before starting treatment that they are truly positive.

It is recommended to test your dog twice a year for heartworms. Mississippi and Louisiana have the highest incidence of cases of heartworm disease in dogs in the United States. There are some reports of resistant strains of heartworm disease in Louisiana, so it is essential to ensure that the heartworm prevention products are effective.

Dogs under six months typically don't need testing. However, it is recommended to start prevention at eight weeks of age, which is when heartworm preventatives are labeled for use. It can take six months from when they're bitten by an infected mosquito for them to test positive. Testing for heartworm disease should start when your dog is six months of age and then semi-annually thereafter.

Your dog is tested for heartworm disease by taking a small blood sample. The test can be run in the clinic and will give results usually in about 10 minutes. It is a very accurate test, requiring just a small blood sample.

Most groomers are trained to work with dogs that have behavioral issues or nervousness, so they should be able to handle such situations. In some cases, dogs may need oral anxiety medication for grooming appointments or vet visits. Talk to your veterinarian about this option. In more extreme cases, some pets may require light sedative medication to make them sleepy for grooming.

Yes. Most professional groomers require pets to be fully vaccinated to protect them against diseases from other pets. Flea control is essential for pets living inside or outside the house or even just going outside to the groomer or bathroom. Fleas can hitchhike on clothes, so it's recommended to have flea and tick coverage year-round.

It is recommended to have your pet professionally groomed regularly. For longer coat dogs like Shih Tzus or Yorkies, go every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on hair growth. For short breed dogs like Dobermans, go every six weeks for brushing out and bathing. In between professional grooms, perform regular care at home, such as combing hair, trimming nails, and giving baths as needed.

Yes, you can bathe a dog too often. It depends on factors like the dog's age, breed, coat type, and how dirty they are. A monthly bath is recommended for regular hygiene. However, some dogs may require cleanup baths in between, especially puppies and notorious breeds like labs. For puppies, dilute their puppy shampoo with water for cleanup baths to avoid stripping oils from their skin. Use a dog shampoo and avoid human shampoos or dish soap, as they can dry out the skin.

No, heartworms are not visible. Both the microfilaria (transmitted from the mosquito) and the adult heartworm live inside the heart, lungs, and major vessels. They are not visible when looking at your dog.