A blood parasite screen tests for Heartworm, Ehrlichia, and Lyme disease. These blood parasites can be fatal infections. That is why it is important to test your dog on a regular basis. If your dog is infected, the earlier we test, the earlier we can take action to avoid a chronic disease state.

The Heartworm test screens for a blood parasite that eventually settles in the heart and lungs possibly leading to death. It is transmitted by mosquitoes year-round and found both indoor pets as well as outdoor pets.

http://www.heartwormsociety.org/download/Incidence-Map-logos.pdf

http://www.heartwormsociety.org/article_1141.html

            The Ehrlichia (also known as tick fever) test screens for a potentially life-threatening disease that is transmitted by ticks. It is a very common disease in Arizona and is the second most common canine infectious disease in the United States (after parvovirus). It is so important to test on a regular basis because while a variety of signs may appear, the most common signs of Ehrlichia infection are hidden.

 http://www.idexx.com/animalhealth/testkits/3dx/faq.jsp#3

http://www.idexx.com/animalhealth/testkits/ecanismap.htm

            Lyme disease is also a disease that is transmitted by ticks. The type of ticks that transmit Lyme disease are most commonly found in California. Lyme disease also has a variety of symptoms that may appear, but most commonly are hidden.

http://www.idexx.com/animalhealth/testkits/lymemap.htm

             It is very important to have a blood parasite screening on a regular basis. Your dog can become infected with Heartworm by a simple mosquito bite, or become infected with Ehrlichia, or Lyme if bitten by an infected tick.  It is very easy to do a blood parasite screening. This test can screen for these diseases with one small blood sample during your dog’s annual exam.  Then the doctor can decide whether your pet may need a preventative or a treatment plan.