I just recently did a research project over Heartworms in my parasitology class. I would say that it's definitely important to get tested every year. Now, depending on your climate and severity of mosquitoes in the area, your veterinarian may be okay with not testing. That is up to them and you.
As for me personally, I live in Oklahoma also where there are mosquitoes year round. Because of that, we are on HW preventative year round and get the test every year. Due to the severity of heartworm and the risks (and costs!) of treatment, I would test every year even if we weren't. It's a simple $20 blood test that guarantees the health of your dog. |