labrador health

Question
have 2 questions,we just adopted a 5 year old spayed labrador,we got here across state,and after getting email today from the previous owner,we found out she hasnt had her heart worm pill since last 4 months,were in cold state of mich,and wonder if we need to have heart worm done.they dont usually check here untill spring and if we do it now,she would still need it done this spring,we are new dog owners,and i havent had a dog for 35 years.would you have it done now or wait untill spring,she has been mostly a inside dog.
#2
she is a great dog,and we havent had her of leash,at home,but im wondering when i should try to play with her,or walk in woods with out her leash,i would hait to loose her if she dosent come when called,she loves to play ball and brings it right to you.any traing excersises to try with her ,or practice before letting her off leash,thanks for your help.jim";  

Answer
Hi, For the 1st question:
I would definitely get her tested for heartworms before starting her back on heartworm medicine since it has been so long since she has had any.  Once the test came back, then I would ask my vet what they recommend you do.  Some medicines you can go off of and start back up without a problem, others you can't.

2nd Question:

I would definitely get her on-leash trained first before attempting any off-leash work as you do want her to know different basic commands as backup when you are ready to attempt off-leash work.  Off-leash just basically is a matter of being able to trust the dog to come to you when called off-leash.  Some dogs you can build up that trust with, others you can't.  Hope this helps, good luck.

Dawn