Price Comparison by Provider Type
Typical costs across different types of veterinary providers
| Provider Type | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Shelter Program Municipal shelters, humane societies | Free - $10Lowest | Subsidized programs |
Nonprofit Clinic Emancipet, ASPCA, community clinics | $5 - $15 | Per month, if available |
Retail Clinic Vetco, ShotVet, PetVet | $8 - $20 | Per month |
Private Veterinarian Full-service veterinary hospitals | $10 - $25 | Per month, requires test |
Shelter Program
Municipal shelters, humane societies
Subsidized programs
Nonprofit Clinic
Emancipet, ASPCA, community clinics
Per month, if available
Retail Clinic
Vetco, ShotVet, PetVet
Per month
Private Veterinarian
Full-service veterinary hospitals
Per month, requires test
Prices are estimates based on publicly available information and may vary by location. Always verify current pricing directly with providers.
Factors That Affect Cost
Why prices vary between providers
- 1Pet's weight - larger pets need larger doses
- 2Brand (generic vs name brand)
- 3Buying 6-month or 12-month supply (bulk savings)
- 4Whether combined with flea/tick prevention
- 5Annual heartworm test required (additional cost)
What's Typically Included
Standard services for this procedure
- One month of heartworm prevention medication
- Note: Annual heartworm test usually required separately
What's included can vary by provider. Always ask what's covered in the quoted price before scheduling.
Tips for Saving
Ways to reduce your costs
Buy in 6 or 12-month supplies for significant savings
Generic options (like ivermectin) are much cheaper
Online pharmacies often have lower prices - compare
Some areas offer assistance programs for preventative medications
Never skip doses - treating heartworm costs thousands
People Also Ask
Common questions about heartworm prevention costs
How much does heartworm prevention cost per month?
Monthly heartworm prevention typically costs $5 to $25 per month depending on your pet's weight, the brand, and where you purchase it. Generic options tend to cost less than name-brand products. Buying in 6 or 12-month supplies often provides per-dose savings. Verify pricing with your provider or pharmacy.
Can I get heartworm prevention for free?
Some shelter programs and nonprofit organizations offer subsidized heartworm prevention for qualifying pet owners. Assistance programs may provide free or reduced-cost medications. Contact your local humane society or animal services office to ask about available programs in your area.
Do I need a heartworm test before buying prevention medication?
Most veterinarians and pharmacies require an annual heartworm test before prescribing or refilling prevention medication. Giving prevention to a dog already infected with heartworm can cause serious health complications. The test typically costs $20 to $80 depending on the provider and test type.
What's the cheapest way to get heartworm prevention?
Affordable options include purchasing generic heartworm prevention, buying in bulk (6 or 12-month supplies), comparing prices at online pet pharmacies, and checking for manufacturer rebates. Some combination products that include flea and tick prevention may offer overall savings compared to buying separate products.
Find Affordable Heartworm Prevention Near You
Browse our directory of low-cost clinics, shelters, and nonprofit providers in your area.
More Cost Guides
Compare prices for other services
Related Resources
Important Information
Estimates Only: Prices shown are estimates based on publicly available information and may vary significantly by location, provider, and individual circumstances. Always verify current pricing directly with providers before scheduling.
Not Medical Advice: This information is for general reference only. Consult a licensed veterinarian for your pet's specific healthcare needs and recommendations.
Independent Directory: PawCost is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or partnered with any listed providers or organizations.