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AHS Bulletin

Updated Canine Heartworm Guidelines

In this VETgirl blog, Dr. Jenni Rizzo summarizes the changes made in the 2024 update to the AHS Canine Heartworm Guidelines

Does a dog with a positive Ag test and negative MF test need to be treated for heartworms?

The results of heartworm tests can sometimes raise questions as well as provide answers. This Clinical FAQ uses an algorithm to explain what veterinarians can conclude from differing test results

Feline heartworm: Are YOU looking for it?

In this article, which was published in VETgirl's e-magazine, Dr. Tom Nelson explains the "how tos" of feline heartworm diagnosis.

New AHS Heartworm Incidence Map

In this Clinical Q&A, AHS President Dr. Jenni Rizzo explains the findings of the 2022 Heartworm Incidence Survey and what they tell us about the spread of heartworms in the U.S. as well as long-timer and emergy "hot spots."

Which heartworm preventive is best?

With so many heartworm preventives available, it's not unreasonable for clients--and even veterinarians--to wonder which one is "best." The truth is that the BEST preventive is--quite simply--the preventive a pet owner will GIVE. As Dr. Elizabeth Clyde explains, factors like cost, covenience, mode of administration and frequency of administration all come into play.

Patient Management after Two Melarsomine Injections

A newly adopted patient received two injections instead of three when treated for heartworm. Veterinarian Angele Bice explains.

Managing Heartworm Disease in Zoo Animals

Zoo animals like marine mammals, big cats and others can become infected with heartworms. Fortunately, prevention is possible.

When a Treated Dog has Persistent Microfilaria

Dr. Tom Nelson explains the potential reasons a dog may test positive for microfilaria following heartworm treatment

Role of Antigen and Antibody Testing in Heartworm-Positive Cats

Veterinary parasitologist Dr. Lindsay Starkey outlines the role of antigen and antibody tests for heartworm screening in cats

Exercise Restriction Advice for Dogs Undergoing Heartworm Treatment

Successful treatment of dogs with heartworm infection requires keeping them quiet and calm, as Dr. Brian DiGangi explains.

How to Treat Heartworm-Positive Cats

There are no approved heartworm treatments for cats, but veterinarians do have options when managing these patients. Veterinary cardiologist Dr. Marisa Ames explains.

Why Pets Need Year-Round Heartworm Prevention

Heartworm Diagnostics: Antigen Tests Alone Aren't Enough

How reliable are patient-side heartworm antigen tests? Veterinary parasitologist Dr. Lindsay Starkey explains.

Antigen Test Timing Following Melarsomine Treatment

How long should I wait before re-testing dogs undergoing heartworm treatment? Dr. Tom Nelson explains the timing.

When Heartworm Treatment is Interrupted

When treating dogs for heartworm, what if there's a delay between giving doxycycline and melarsomine? Dr. Chris Duke explains.

Managing Dogs Treated with Non-AHS Protocols

When treating dogs for heartworm, what's the difference in efficacy between two and three injections of melarsomine? Dr. Angele Bice breaks it down.

Hit the “Reset” Button on your Client Education Program

How should I educate my clients about heartworm prevention this spring? Dr. Chris Duke shares tips.

Safe Transport of Heartworm-Positive Dogs

How can I safely transport dogs in the midst of heartworm treatment? Dr. Brian DiGangi shares the AHS/ASV recommendations.

What’s the Protocol?

Marisa Ames,DVM, DACVIM (cardiology)
Associate Professor
Colorado State University,
College Of Veterinary Medicine

Heartworm Disease Causes Lifelong Damage

Can heartworm infection cause permanent damage in dogs? The answer is yes, says Dr. Stephen Jones.

Heartworm Diagnostics: Antigen Tests Alone Aren’t Enough

How reliable are patient-side heartworm antigen tests? Veterinary parasitologist Dr. Lindsay Starkey explains.

Making the Case for Heartworm Prevention in Cats

Why is heartworm prevention important for cats? Dr. Elizabeth Clyde gives reasons.

The States of Heartworm Incidence

What does the latest AHS survey say about heartworm incidence? Dr. Chris Duke explains.

Tackling Tough Conversations

Can I cut corners on the AHS heartworm treatment protocol for dogs? AHS Past President Dr. Chris Rehm says "no."