No heartworm prevention and shot questions

[mars817]

At the vet today I asked aobut heartworm prevention and they said I didn't need it here (Northern Nevada) because it's not an issue? Does that sound right, I don't know much but didn't realize it was a localized thing? Plus he will travel with me, should I just get it on my own (can I?)?

Also he is 6 months old. He supposedly had 2 sets of shots and just needed one more at 6 months. The vet gave him a set today and filled the paper work out that he was good for a year, is that okay? I don't definately know that he had any before and there is no way to check out his past?

[Judi W]

Your vet is wrong. No, you cannot just get the meds on your own as they are a prescripion item. The only vets I know that claim it is not necessary are those that never check for it so they can say they've "never seen it here"......... I believe there is an incident map someplace if I can locate it. Doesn't need to be a high incidence if your dog is the one that makes up the statistics..............

[debbiej]

I agree. I know too many dogs who have died from heartworm. Since mosquitoes are everywhere, so can heartworm be. and if you travel, for sure.

[Judi W]

Is Northern Utah close enough?

http://www.umaa.org/proceedings/WebP...ERN%20UTAH.htm

[targonrotts]

the heartworm society now recomends everyone should have their dogs on heartworm prevention year round.the prevention is better than the cure.
as to vaccs, if you did 2 sets after 4 months of age and did all, you should be ok until next year.
don't forget to check for intestinal worms!