Description
Our heartworm test for dogs is a simple blood test. It will tell you whether or not your best friend is infected with canine heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis
Our heartworm antigen blood test is more sensitive than regular faecal testing and therefore more accurate; it has a sensitivity of 99.5% and specificity of 94% which is the highest of all leading competitors.
Dirofilaria immitis is a parasite transmitted by mosquito bites to dogs. The parasite migrates though the tissue and into the blood where it undergoes different stages of development. Once it becomes an adult it lives in the pulmonary arteries and heart.
Whilst UK mosquitoes are not able to transmit the infection, dogs that holiday in warmer areas of Europe may be at risk of infection. Some dogs may not present with symptoms and if left untreated it can cause long term health problems or even death.
Dragon Lab’s testing service provides same day results, which is one of the fastest turn around times of heartworm testing labs in UK. Our experts not only provide you with the results, but also provide you with invaluable knowledge and advice from our extensive experience.
Generic vets are not usually specifically trained in interpreting antigen test results; their experience is usually limited and recommendations are swayed by affiliations to pharmaceutical companies. This can lead to incorrect or biased treatment guidance which is not necessarily the best course of action for your dog.
