At-Home Heartworm Test Launches National Validation Study
Dog owners in 52 cities can now enroll in a free study to help validate a new at-home heartworm diagnostic method.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Pet Health
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Affordable Pet Labs has launched a nationwide validation study for a new at-home heartworm testing method. Dog owners in 52 cities are invited to participate for free to help evaluate if the non-blood sample test meets gold-standard clinical requirements.
Why it matters
Annual heartworm testing is essential for pet health, and this study aims to streamline the process for families. By testing a new home-collection method, the company hopes to increase access to preventive veterinary care for dog owners across the country.
The study aims to collect over 1,500 samples across 52 cities, with technicians performing visits in approximately 15 minutes. Results are expected within 2-3 business days.
The players
Affordable Pet Labs
A Scottsdale-based diagnostics company that provides home-based veterinary testing services across the United States.
The details
During a scheduled home visit, a technician collects both a standard blood sample and the new test sample to compare the results. To ensure data accuracy, participating dogs must be at least 7 months old and have not undergone melarsomine treatment in the past 12 months or taken doxycycline in the last 60 days. Independent researchers will oversee the study to determine if the at-home collection method matches the reliability of standard diagnostic tests.
Timeline
Affordable Pet Labs was founded in September 2019.
The validation study was announced on October 26, 2026.
The Home Front
Veterinary diagnostic companies are increasingly moving toward home-based collection models to reduce stress on pets and improve owner compliance. This study serves as a critical step in determining if at-home collection can meet the accuracy required by established heartworm diagnostic standards.
If you own a dog that meets the age and medication eligibility criteria, you can verify your location's participation via the company portal. Ensure you have your dog's medical history ready, as recent antibiotic or heartworm treatments may disqualify your pet from this specific study.
The takeaway
Reliable testing is a cornerstone of heartworm prevention, and new technologies may soon make routine checks more accessible. Families should continue annual testing through their veterinarian while these new diagnostic methods undergo validation.
Further reading
Learn more about maintaining your dog's preventative care at Pet Health.
More information
For full details on participant eligibility or to sign up, visit the study enrollment and eligibility portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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