For cat and dog lovers everywhere, heartworms are serious threat. And we all know that nothing helps to prevent heartworms, hookworms and roundworms like Heartgard and Heartgard Plus.

But…they’re expensive, you say. And not giving your pet the medicine they need because you cannot afford it isn’t a good option (unless you live somewhere where there aren’t any mosquitoes). So what can you do? The way I see it, pet owners have two options: 1) You can shop around for a discounted version or 2) You can buy generic Heartgard. Both have their advantages.

Discount Heartgard

Don’t worry, discount Heartgard is still Heartgard, it just costs less. It still prevents mosquito-born heartworms, at up to 40% less than full price. The key to finding good, discount Heartgard is to shop around.

Pull out your local YellowPages: many pet stores compete for lowest prices. Ask your friends and family where they shop. Or you can shop online for a discount. Because of lower overhead, many online stores may be able to offer you things like better discounts and free shipping.

Note: Know that even online sites will require proof of prescription before they will ship you medicine.

Generic Heartgard

Your second money-saving option is to buy a generic version. Generic Heartgard is available at almost half the cost of the branded product and can be found both on and offline, in stores all across the country.

Many generics still employ Invermectin as their chief ingredient and are just as effective at fighting dogworms and catworms. Just be sure—before you buy anything—that the generic brand you are considering is registered and FDA approved.

Be sure to check the ‘filler’ ingredients (the ingredients not used the in branded version). (Some filler ingredients may be toxic for your pet.)

Compare the dosage levels. Remember that many companies use the metric system. And Tthe metric dosages used in some generic Heartgard medicines can be confusing, and could lead to an overdose (or underdose) of the generic Heartgard if given to your pet.

Also, remember that you should not give Heartgard to a pet that already has heartworms. It could be fatal

In summary, The availability of generic or discount Heartgard—at almost half the price—is extremely tempting. But it may not be worth the risk. And it may not be worth the money you save. It is always sound advice to check with your veterinarian before treating your pet with any medicine.