05/29/2026
Did you know your dog's heartworm test also checks for several tickborne diseases? The test we run (4Dx) also screens for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis. It's important to catch these diseases early before they cause any neurological disorders or organ failure.
The visual below shows positivity rates for our area as well as for our patients at Hickory Veterinary Hospital. (I was shocked to see that 1 in 10 dogs tested positive for a tickborne illness. Then again, my dog has tested positive for anaplasmosis. 😞 -Jen)
Please say "yes" to the test when asked and please keep your pets on heartworm/flea and tick preventatives year-round. The ticks are literally crawling out of the woodwork this year. 🫨