SNAP 4DX Blood Test

Most clinics and hospitals have access to a quick and simple test that screens for heartworm disease and 3 of the most common tick-borne illnesses in dogs. Just a few drops of blood are needed and results are ready within 10 minutes. The most common names for this test include a 4Dx or Accuplex - depending on the manufacturing company. 

Heartworm: This part of the test detects if there are any antigens in the blood. A positive result means there are proteins from an adult female heartworm causing an infection. Further testing is needed to determine the severity of the infection and which course of treatment is needed. 

Tick-borne illness: This part of the test picks up on antibodies, which are immune responses to exposure to Lyme, Ehrlichia, or Anaplasma. A positive result means your pet was exposed to these common tick-borne illnesses, but it may not be an active infection that needs treatment. If your pet has tested positive in the past, it is possible for any retest to also be positive. This is due to residual antibodies that are still in your pet's system. 

It's recommended that these tests are run yearly regardless of vaccination status or use of heartworm/flea/tick prevention. No product has a 100% efficacy rate and can't ensure complete coverage from any illness. This test will ensure that your pet stays happy/healthy, or can be used for early detection of any illness so it can be treated as soon as possible.