Any adoptable shelter dog that tests positive for heartworms will be treated for the disease either prior to the adoption with the SPCA of Texas or after adoption, at no cost to the adopter, by SPCA of Texas partner VCA Animal Hospitals. The adopter may choose the Metroplex-area VCA Animal Hospital location from a list given to the adopter at the time of adoption. This partnership will provide the best total care for heartworm positive dogs in treatment, as the animals will have access to emergency care and overnight stays if necessary. The easiest and least expensive way to make sure dogs and cats stay heartworm free is to keep pets on heartworm preventative medication at all times.