October Free Screenings: Heartworm for Dogs and Fecal for Cats

It is prevention season at Companion Animal Medical Centre. All October, we are offering free heartworm screenings for dogs and free fecal screenings for cats. These quick, effective tests help catch problems early—often before pets show any symptoms—so your family can stay healthy and your pets can stay happy.

Why now? Mosquito and parasite activity does not drop to zero in our area, and many pets can carry parasites without obvious signs. A simple annual test gives you clarity and keeps your pet on the safest track.

October only—free heartworm tests for dogs and free fecal tests for cats

Book Your Free October Screening → link to booking

What is included and who qualifies?

Dogs: rapid heartworm antigen screening (and microfilaria test as indicated)
Cats: fecal screening for intestinal parasites (eggs, cysts, or segments)
Eligibility: one free screening per pet during October; new and existing clients; appointments required

What to expect

Dogs: a small blood sample for a rapid in-clinic test. If positive, we will confirm and discuss next steps.
Cats: please bring a fresh stool sample collected within 24 hours in a clean plastic bag or container. Keep it cool and do not let it dry out.

Why these screenings matter

Dogs and heartworm disease

Heartworm is carried by mosquitoes. Once inside a dog, worms live in the heart, lungs, and nearby vessels where they can cause cough, exercise intolerance, and eventually heart failure. The American Heartworm Society recommends annual screening with both an antigen test and microfilaria test for all dogs over seven months of age, even when they are on prevention. Prevention is essential year-round; testing ensures nothing slips through.

Cats and intestinal parasites

Fecal testing looks for roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, giardia, coccidia, and more. The Companion Animal Parasite Council recommends frequent testing for kittens and periodic testing for adult cats based on lifestyle. Indoor cats are not risk-free—eggs can ride in on shoes, potting soil, insects, or rodents. Routine fecal screening protects your cat and reduces zoonotic risks to your family.

What to bring to your appointment

Dogs: current medication list and any heartworm prevention history
Cats: a fresh stool sample (within 24 hours), labeled with pet name and date/time collected
Questions you want answered—we are here to help

Pro tip: If you have multiple pets, label each sample by pet name. If you cannot collect a sample before the visit, we can provide a collection kit.

Frequently asked questions

Do indoor cats really need fecal tests?

Yes. Parasite eggs can enter homes on shoes and clothing, and insects or rodents can transmit parasites. Regular screening keeps your household safer.

My dog is on prevention. Why test every year?

Even with great compliance, rare lapses or resistant populations can occur. Annual testing ensures prompt diagnosis and treatment if needed.

How fast are results?

Dog heartworm screens are often completed during your visit. Fecal test turnaround is usually same day to 48 hours depending on the method used.

What if my dog tests positive for heartworm?

We follow current guidelines that prioritize your dog’s safety. This typically includes confirmatory testing, starting doxycycline and a macrocyclic lactone, strict activity restriction, and a three-dose melarsomine protocol when indicated. We will outline costs and timelines before treatment.

What if my cat’s fecal test is positive?

We will prescribe targeted deworming and prevention based on the organism identified and your cat’s health status, then recommend follow-up testing to confirm clearance.

Ask a Question → link to contact form

Prevention is the best medicine

Dogs: give an FDA-approved heartworm preventive year-round and test annually
Cats: keep up with parasite prevention and fecal screening based on lifestyle
Everyone: reduce standing water, use vet-recommended ectoparasiticides as advised, and practice good hygiene when handling litter or stool

About Companion Animal Medical Centre

We are a locally trusted, veterinarian-owned clinic in Milford serving families from Goshen, Loveland, and the surrounding communities. Our focus is preventive care, low-stress visits, and clear communication. We would love to meet you and your pet.