How expensive is heartworm treatment for dogs?

Heartworm treatment for dogs isn’t a one-size-fits-all cost—most pet parents learn that quickly when their vet breaks down the bill. It starts with the initial tests: a blood test to confirm the presence of heartworms, which can run between 50and150 depending on where you live. That’s just the first step, though. Once confirmed, the real expenses kick in, and they vary a lot based on how advanced the infection is.​

Early-stage infections, where the worms are still in the bloodstream and haven’t damaged the heart, tend to be cheaper. You’re looking at around 500to1,000 for the full course of injections and follow-up meds. These treatments usually involve a series of shots to kill the adult worms, plus medications to clear microfilariae—the baby worms circulating in the blood. But if the infection has lingered, reaching the heart or lungs, things get pricier. Surgery to remove adult worms, extended hospital stays, or specialized care for organ damage can push costs to $2,000 or more. Some owners in rural areas find local vets charge less than big-city clinics, while emergency hospitals? They’ll often add a premium for after-hours care.​

What many don’t realize is that the type of clinic matters too. Chain pet hospitals might offer standardized pricing that’s easier to budget for, but private practices with more experienced vets could charge more for personalized care. Insurance can soften the blow, but only if you have a plan that covers heartworm treatment—many basic policies exclude it unless you added a rider, so checking your coverage before trouble hits is smart. Some regions even require proof of regular preventive care to qualify for treatment coverage, which ties back to local guidelines around responsible pet ownership.​

Prevention is where the math really shifts. Monthly heartworm preventatives cost just 10to30 a dose, a fraction of treatment bills. Skipping them doesn’t just risk your dog’s health; in areas with strict pet welfare laws, falling behind on prevention can raise red flags during routine checks. It’s a small investment that avoids the stress of unexpected thousands later.​

Treatment timelines add another layer. Dogs undergoing heartworm treatment need strict rest for weeks—no rough play, no long walks. That means adjusting your routine, maybe even taking time off work to monitor them. For families with active lifestyles, this hidden “cost” of time and convenience is worth factoring in alongside the financial numbers.​

At the end of the day, heartworm treatment costs boil down to timing. Catch it early, and you’re looking at manageable bills. Let it progress, and the price tag climbs—along with the risk to your dog’s life. Most vets will work with you on payment plans, but there’s no substitute for staying ahead with prevention. After all, keeping those monthly doses on schedule is far easier than watching your pup recover from a serious infection.​