Bad me, I didn't address your first post.

The prevention is safe for all breeds now, but I have a feeling thta when they weren't safe was factored into the reaction data as well.

I totally agree that heartworm medication can be given every six months. I would do this with my dog if the cat didn't have to have it every month at the same time (it's different with cats).

The fact that a dog will always test positive is false. The antigen test is commonly used for dogs and it can go from positive to negative. However the antibody test that is used for cats will always be positive because the antibodies remain with the animal for life. Heartworm infections in cats can be self clearing, but I have never heard of this in dogs. I'd be very interested in more information (on the e-list you talk of and heartworm infections in dogs that disappeared without treatment).

My last post should read, "I totally agree that heartworm medication can be given every six weeks." Sorry about that.

The information I have posted Lauren comes from Dr. Hamilton and his collegues and their experiences throughout the years as veternarians and specifically with heartworms. It is not only his experiences though. I have attended numerous seminars and have heard this information first hand from all of these veternarians as well. Many of them being in the field for over 30 yrs. I know that Dr. Martin Goldstein says simular things in his findings.

Sorry don't have any more information on Dr. Dillons article as this information was passed along by Dr. Hamilton through email.

I agree that it does boil down to what risks you want to take...think I said that a couple of times earlier....just trying to get people to see that there are risks in giving the heartworm preventative as well <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> You may not see the effects right away but long term many will.

Hopefully there can also be a give and take. If one feels that it is crucial to give heartworm medication then perhaps they can lay off of the vaccines, flea treatments , and other chemicals that DO affect the long term health of the dog. And of course....most importantly, feed a raw natural diet.

As well....in the above posts there are other suggestions that may help your dog during the treatments.

My vet (previous vet) for years told me that I should have my dogs on heartworm preventative, that we are in heartworm country, there have been many cases, blah , blah, blah. Back then , I usually listened and I diligently gave them monthly. Now, I am much smarter. There have only been 2 confirmed cases of heartworm in this area over the last couple of years and that was in 2 dogs visiting from the U.S. So, why in the world is almost every veternarian 'pushing' heartworm prevention in this area??????

I have 2 good friends who are veternarians...and I know why, money. I am not saying that every vet is only in it for money or that every vet who recommends heartworm prevetative is in it for the money, but they do get a kick back from the companies and that is reality.

Again....please decide for yourself with careful consideration if you should be giving your dog prevetatives or not.