Many dog owners worry about their pets contracting heartworm disease. Heartgard is a preventative medication that helps protect dogs from this potentially deadly disease. All dogs in the United States are advised to receive heartworm prevention year-round by the American Heartworm Society.
Heartgard works by killing the heartworm larvae in your dog's system. These larvae are transmitted to dogs through mosquito bites. Once they mature, they can grow over a foot long and live inside the heart and major blood vessels of the lungs. If left untreated, heartworm disease can be fatal.
While no medication is 100% effective, Heartgard is one of the most effective medications for protecting your dog from heartworm disease. If you're concerned about your pet contracting this disease, talk to your veterinarian about whether Heartgard is right for them.
What Is Heartgard And What Does It Do
Heartgard is a monthly oral medication used to prevent heartworm disease in dogs. Heartgard kills the immature form of the heartworm larvae before it can infect your dog's system. This preventative measure is essential, as once heartworms mature, they are much more difficult (and expensive) to treat.
Heartgard is given orally once a month. Heartgard is chewable and manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim (BI). Most dogs adore our beef-flavoured chews taste, making them perfect for a delicious treat.
Heartgard's active ingredient is ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug that kills heartworm larvae. However, most vets recommend Heartgard Plus, which also contains ivermectin. However, it has pyrantel, an anthelmintic drug that eliminates hookworms and roundworms.
Heartworm preventive medications, such as Heartgard Plus, are more effective in preventing heartworm infection. Because of its greater parasite control, most veterinarians prefer Heartgard Plus to regular Heartgard. Furthermore, Heartgard Plus is more accessible and less expensive than regular Heartgard. If your dog is infected with heartworms, it is essential to treat them as soon as possible. The earlier you catch the infection, the better your dog's chance of a full recovery.
If you're concerned about your dog getting heartworm disease, talk to your veterinarian about which type of Heartgard is right for them.
Who Should Give Their Dog Heartgard?
There are many reasons why you need to start your dog on Heartgard. All dog owners in the United States should give their dogs Heartgard, or a similar heartworm preventive medication, year-round. This is because mosquitoes, which transmit heartworm larvae to dogs, are present in all 50 states. The American Heartworm Society (AHS) recommends that all dogs be on a heartworm preventative medication year-round, regardless of where they live. This is because it only takes one mosquito bite for a dog to contract heartworms.
There are many different brands of heartworm preventatives available on the market. However, not all of them are created equal. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about which brand is suitable for your dog.
How Much Does Heartgard Cost?
The cost of Heartgard varies depending on the size of your dog and where you purchase it. On average, a six-month supply of Heartgard for a small dog costs between $60 and $120. A six-month supply for a large dog typically costs between $100 and $200. You can purchase Heartgard at most pet stores and online retailers. However, we recommend talking to your veterinarian first, as they may be able to provide you with a discount.
When Should I Give My Dog Heartgard?
Heartgard should be given to dogs year-round, as mosquitoes are present in all 50 states. The best time to start giving your dog Heartgard is before mosquito season begins in your area. In the northern hemisphere, mosquito season typically runs from April through November. In the southern hemisphere, it runs from October through March. However, because mosquitoes can live indoors, it's essential to give your dog Heartgard year-round, regardless of where you live.
If you're unsure when mosquito season starts in your area, talk to your veterinarian. They will be able to tell you when you should start giving your dog Heartgard.
How Do I Give My Dog Heartgard?
Heartgard is a monthly oral medication given to dogs to prevent heartworm disease. The medication comes from a chewable tablet that most dogs love. To give your dog Heartgard, simply place the tablet in its mouth and let them chew it.
If your dog is resistant to taking medication, you can do a few things to make the process easier. You can try hiding the tablet in their food or giving them a treat after they take the medication. If you're still having trouble, talk to your veterinarian. They may be able to prescribe a different form of heartworm preventative that is easier for your dog to take.
What Are The Side Effects Of Heartgard?
The most common side effect of Heartgard is vomiting. This typically occurs within a few hours of taking the medication. If your dog vomits after taking Heartgard, there is no need to be concerned. Simply wait 30 minutes and then give them another dose.
Other less common side effects of Heartgard include loss of appetite, diarrhoea, and lethargy. Talk to your veterinarian if you notice any of these side effects in your dog. They will be able to determine if the medication is the cause and prescribe a different form of heartworm preventative if necessary.
Is There Anything Else I Should Know About Heartgard?
Heartgard is a safe and effective heartworm-preventative medication for most dogs. However, as with all medications, there is always a risk of side effects. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the risks and benefits of Heartgard before starting your dog on the medication. However, it's important to remember that it does not protect against other types of worms, such as roundworms or tapeworms. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about which worming medication is right for your dog.
Heartgard is just one part of a complete heartworm prevention program. It would be best to have them tested annually to protect your dog from heartworm disease. Your veterinarian can perform this test during your dog's yearly wellness exam.
Do you have any questions about Heartgard? We would love to hear from you! Leave us a comment below!
