Heartworm Prevention in Altamonte Springs, FL, From Your Local Vet

Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Altamonte Springs is a vet in Altamonte Springs, FL, that prescribes heartworm prevention for dogs and cats, as a monthly chew, a topical or a long-lasting injection for dogs. Every pet should stay on it all year, without gaps.

Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes. One bite can pass tiny larvae that grow into foot-long worms in the heart and lungs over about six months. Prevention kills the larvae before that happens.

Call (407) 707-8525 or book online to start or refill prevention.

Why does my pet need heartworm prevention all year?

The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round prevention for dogs and cats across the country. In Central Florida, the case is easy to see: lakes, retention ponds, summer rain and mild winters give mosquitoes plenty of chances to bite. Skipping "just the winter months" leaves a window open, and a single missed dose can let larvae slip through.

Year-round dosing also builds a habit. Pick one day a month, like the first, and set a phone reminder.

Which heartworm preventive is right for my dog?

At Petfolk Altamonte Springs, the vet matches the product to your dog's life:

• Monthly chews that combine heartworm, flea, tick and intestinal worm protection in one treat. Across Petfolk, 85% of dog parasite-prevention purchases are Simparica Trio, a monthly chew of this type (Oct 1, 2025 to Sep 30, 2026).

• A long-acting injection, such as ProHeart 12, given at the clinic once a year. About 6% of dog parasite-prevention purchases across Petfolk are ProHeart 12.

• Topicals for pets that won't take a chew.

Dogs need a negative heartworm test before starting, and a yearly test after that.

Indoor cats need it too

Yes. Mosquitoes get inside screened lanais and homes, and cats can't be treated for heartworm the way dogs can. A cat's best protection is prevention. A monthly topical that also covers fleas and some worms is the most common choice; the vet will suggest one that fits.

Your pet's prevention, start to finish

1. Exam and heartworm test for dogs. Many results are back during the visit from the in-house lab.

2. Choose the product with the vet: chew, topical or yearly shot.

3. Weigh your pet, because dose depends on weight. Puppies need a size change as they grow.

4. Get the first dose from the on-site pharmacy before you leave.

5. Set a reminder for the monthly dose or the next injection.

Fear Free handling is standard at every Petfolk clinic, so the blood draw and the chew both go smoothly.

What does heartworm prevention cost?

The cost depends on your pet's weight and the product, so the team quotes it at the visit. Wellness exams start at $99 at Petfolk Altamonte Springs, or are included with PetfolkCare, which starts at $199 a year. You'll get an estimate before any test or treatment. The final bill can differ if the plan changes during the visit.

Missed a dose?

Give it as soon as you remember, then go back to your usual day. If more than a few weeks have passed, call the clinic: your dog may need a heartworm test in about six months to make sure nothing slipped through. Never double up on doses without asking.

Signs of heartworm disease

Early heartworm disease often shows no signs. Later, dogs may cough, tire on walks or lose weight. Cats may vomit, cough or breathe fast. If your pet collapses or has severe trouble breathing, go to a 24-hour emergency hospital such as VEG Winter Park on W Fairbanks Ave.

Start prevention in Altamonte Springs

Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Altamonte Springs is at 999 N State Rd 434, Suite 1010, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714. Call (407) 707-8525. Due for the blood test? See heartworm testing in Altamonte Springs.

Book a visit at Petfolk Veterinary & Urgent Care - Altamonte Springs, or see all veterinary services in Altamonte Springs.