Price Comparison
Compare prices across provider types
| Provider | Type | Price | Features | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Vetco (Petco) | Retail Clinic | $35-$45 | No Exam FeeWalk-Ins | 4DX test includes tick-borne diseases |
ShotVet (PetSmart) | Retail Clinic | $38-$48 | No Exam FeeWalk-Ins | Heartworm/tick disease combo test |
PetVet (Tractor Supply) | Retail Clinic | $35-$42 | No Exam FeeWalk-Ins | Quick results at walk-in clinics |
Humane Society/SPCA | Nonprofit Clinic | $25-$40 | Pricing varies by location | |
Low-Cost Community ClinicsLowest | Nonprofit | $20-$35 | Basic heartworm test | |
Traditional Veterinary Office | Full-Service Vet | $50-$80 | Includes exam; can prescribe preventatives |
Retail Clinic
4DX test includes tick-borne diseases
Retail Clinic
Heartworm/tick disease combo test
Retail Clinic
Quick results at walk-in clinics
Nonprofit Clinic
Pricing varies by location
Nonprofit
Basic heartworm test
Full-Service Vet
Includes exam; can prescribe preventatives
Prices shown are approximate and may not reflect current rates. Information sourced from provider websites and public records. Last verified dates indicate when pricing was last confirmed. Always verify directly with the provider before scheduling a visit.
Understanding the Difference
What you need to know
Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart and blood vessels of infected animals. It's transmitted by mosquitoes. Annual testing is recommended before starting or refilling heartworm prevention medication, as giving preventatives to an infected dog can cause serious reactions. The most common test (4DX or similar) also screens for tick-borne diseases like Lyme, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasmosis. Results are typically available in about 10 minutes.
Important Notes
Before you visit a provider
- Annual testing is recommended for all dogs
- Test is required before starting heartworm prevention
- Most retail clinics cannot prescribe preventative medication
- You may need a vet prescription for heartworm preventatives
- Results are typically available within 10-15 minutes
- Positive tests require follow-up with a veterinarian
People Also Ask
Common questions about heartworm test pricing
What's the cheapest place to get a heartworm test?
Based on publicly available pricing, low-cost community clinics may offer heartworm tests for $20 to $35. Retail walk-in clinics at Petco (Vetco), PetSmart (ShotVet), and Tractor Supply (PetVet) typically charge $35 to $48 without an exam fee. Some clinics offer free testing with purchase of annual heartworm prevention.
Is a heartworm test at a retail clinic the same as at a vet?
Heartworm tests used at retail clinics are the same FDA-approved diagnostic products used at traditional veterinary offices. The test accuracy is comparable across provider types. However, retail clinics may not be able to prescribe heartworm prevention medication, so you may need a separate veterinary visit for a prescription.
Do I need an appointment for a heartworm test?
Retail walk-in clinics at Petco, PetSmart, and Tractor Supply generally accept walk-ins for heartworm testing. Nonprofit clinics may require appointments or have specific testing days. Traditional veterinary offices typically require scheduled appointments. Contact the provider to confirm their current walk-in policy.
What should I ask before getting a heartworm test?
Ask whether the test is a basic heartworm-only test or a 4DX combo test (which also screens for tick-borne diseases), what the total cost is including any fees, how quickly results are available, and whether the provider can prescribe preventative medication. If they cannot prescribe, ask if they can provide results documentation for your regular vet.
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Helpful Resources
Pricing Methodology & Disclaimers
Data Sources: Prices were gathered from publicly available provider websites, published price lists, and community-reported data as of February 2026. Data is not verified and may be outdated.
Prices Are Estimates: All prices shown may not reflect current pricing. Actual costs vary significantly by geographic location, pet size, weight, health status, and individual provider pricing policies. Always verify costs directly with providers before visiting.
Independent Directory: PawCost is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or partnered with any provider listed. We do not verify, recommend, or guarantee any services or pricing.
Not Medical Advice: This comparison is for informational purposes only. Consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's specific healthcare needs.