Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Does my puppy need a vet to administer heartworm prevention?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Does a vet have to give puppies heartworm prevention?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Maria DVM

Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 18th, 2018

I do recommend monthly heartworm prevention starting at 8 weeks of age. It is a prescription so a veterinarian does not have to personally give the pill but you need to either buy it from a vet or get a prescription from a vet. The only medication that needed to be at a veterinarian's office is Pro-heart. This is an injectable heartworm prevention that lasts for 6 months.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 7th, 2019

    Heartworm prevention can be started at any age. While some parts of the country have heart worms year-round, other parts only have a heartworm season. A local veterinarian is the best person to answer your question as to when to start the prevention. Typically the prevention requires one visit for a heartworm test (a blood test). Prevention is a tablet given once a month. As long as you give the tablet each month you will not need to repeat a heartworm test until the next year. The test must be done once a year to sell the prevention. You do not require a visit every time you get the heartworm preventative unless your pet is growing. Then you just need to get her weight so you can get the correct size tablet. Adult dogs can also get an injectable product that last six months. This must be administered by the veterinarian. I hope this answers your questions and please feel free to post any additional questions.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button