Dog Heartworm Testing & Treatment in San Jose
Heartworm disease is preventable but devastating once contracted. Even in California, where infection rates are lower than the South, dogs that travel or move from endemic areas are at real risk. ARCH Veterinary provides annual 4DX screening, monthly prevention plans, and full adulticide treatment protocols for positive dogs.
How dogs get heartworm in California
Mosquitoes transmit Dirofilaria immitis larvae. California cases are concentrated in dogs adopted or transported from the South, dogs that travel, and parts of the Central Valley where mosquito populations are higher. Even one mosquito bite can transmit.
Signs of heartworm disease
Early infection is silent. As worms mature in the heart and lungs, dogs develop a soft chronic cough, exercise intolerance, weight loss, and eventually right-sided heart failure and abdominal fluid. Sudden collapse from caval syndrome is a worst-case emergency.
Annual screening
We use the IDEXX 4DX SNAP test (heartworm, Lyme, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia) annually for every dog on prevention. Positive results are confirmed with quantitative antigen testing and microfilaria check, followed by chest X-rays and bloodwork to stage disease severity.
Treatment protocol
Standard American Heartworm Society protocol: stabilization with doxycycline and steroids, then three injections of melarsomine (Immiticide) over 60 days, strict exercise restriction throughout, and microfilaricidal treatment. The full course takes 4–6 months and requires careful monitoring.
Prevention
Year-round monthly prevention with products like Heartgard Plus, Interceptor Plus, Simparica Trio, or NexGard Plus is far cheaper and safer than treating disease. Prevention also covers intestinal parasites. We tailor the choice to your dog's lifestyle.
Advanced veterinary care in San Jose
ARCH Veterinary provides advanced care for pets across San Jose and the surrounding South Bay, with urgent care, emergency medicine, surgery, CT imaging, ultrasound, and hospitalization all under one roof. Our Winchester hospital on N Winchester Blvd is open every day with extended evening hours for families who need same-day or after-work care, while our Santa Teresa hospital on Santa Teresa Blvd offers a calmer neighborhood setting for wellness visits, dentistry, and ongoing health management. Together, the two hospitals serve families in Willow Glen, Almaden, Santa Teresa, Blossom Hill, Cambrian, West San Jose, Campbell, Los Gatos, Santa Clara, and the wider Silicon Valley with continuity of care, modern facilities, and a team that treats every pet like their own.
Frequently asked questions
Is heartworm common in San Jose?
Less common than in the South, but real — especially for rescues from southern states and dogs that travel. Annual testing and prevention are still recommended.
How long is treatment?
The full American Heartworm Society protocol takes 4–6 months with strict exercise restriction throughout.
Can my dog die from heartworm treatment?
Treatment carries real risks, which is why prevention is dramatically safer and cheaper. We monitor every step carefully.
Do indoor dogs need prevention?
Yes — mosquitoes get inside and a single bite can transmit. Year-round prevention is recommended.