Affordable Pet Labs Tests New At-Home Heartworm Method
The company is seeking 1,500 dogs for a validation study of a non-blood heartworm testing procedure.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Pet Health
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Affordable Pet Labs has launched a nationwide validation study to evaluate a new, non-blood heartworm test for dogs. The company is inviting owners in 52 cities to participate in the program for free as they gather data to compare the new method against standard diagnostic tests.
Why it matters
This study aims to simplify the process for pet owners to keep up with annual heartworm testing requirements. By moving to an at-home collection model, the company hopes to provide easier access to care and increase testing compliance among dog owners.
The study is open to dogs at least 7 months old and requires participants to have avoided melarsomine treatment for 12 months or doxycycline for 60 days. Each home visit takes approximately 15 minutes, with results provided within 2-3 business days.
The players
Affordable Pet Labs
A pet healthcare company based in Scottsdale, Arizona, that operates a national network of technicians providing at-home diagnostic services.
The details
Technicians visit the home to perform a standard blood test and collect the new non-blood sample for direct comparison. Independent researchers will oversee the study to determine if the new method reaches the gold-standard diagnostic criteria for widespread public release.
Timeline
October 26, 2026: Affordable Pet Labs announces the validation study.
September 2019: Affordable Pet Labs was founded.
Culture Shift
This study aligns with the broader societal shift toward decentralized, direct-to-consumer healthcare solutions that prioritize convenience. It follows the pattern set by human telemedicine and home diagnostic markets, signaling a move toward integrated at-home pet care services.
Dog owners in participating cities can receive a free professional heartworm test and contribute to the development of an easier, non-invasive testing method. Participation requires a brief home visit by a technician, which may save owners the time and stress of a clinic trip.
The takeaway
If validated, this technology could permanently change how pet owners handle essential annual heartworm screenings. Owners interested in participating should review the strict medical history requirements for their dogs before signing up for a home visit.
Further reading
Learn more about advancements in Pet Health diagnostic services.
More information
To check eligibility or join the study, visit the study enrollment and eligibility portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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