Purchasing a heartworm preventative is one of the best things you can do for you pet's health. But…if you’re like most pet owners, you probably have some questions. Here are a few answers to help you narrow down your search.
Q: What is Heartgard?
A: Heartgard is a veterinary prescription made for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs and cats.
Q: How does it work?
A: Invermectin is the chief ingredient used. It interferes with the parasite’s nerve transmission, and then paralyses and kills the immature heartworms (larvae).
Q: How often should give this medication to my pet?
A: Once a month. Note: you should try to give your dog his Heartgard medicine on the same day, every month. The heart stickers, included in the package, will help you rememember.
Q: What if I miss a dose?
A: If the time between doses exceeds 30 days, Invermectin’s effectiveness may be reduced. (Remember, Invermectin kills immature heartworms. And missing doses may allow the heartworms to mature to a point where the medicine is less effective.)
For that reason, experts recommend testing your dog for heartworm infection 61/2 months after the missed dose.
Q: What about sensitive breeds like Collies, is this dewormer safe for them?
A: Collies and other related breeds have shown sensitivity to Invermectin. Fortunately, the dose of Invermectin in Heartgard is low. And the manufacturer, Murial, states that the medicine should be safe if used as directed.
Q: When should I start my pet on Heartgard?
A: Heartgard kills larvae your pet was exposed to within the last 30 days. So, if you are going to give your dog a seasonal preventative, give it to him a month after the first mosquito appears.
Q: What about puppies?
A: You can start your puppy on the preventative when he’s at least 6 weeks old.
Q: What if I want to protect my pet against intestinal worms?
A: Consider Heartgard Plus. In addition to Invermectin, it contains Pyrantel, which eliminates hookworms and roundworms as well as heartworms.
Q: Does my pet need to be tested before giving him Heartgard?
A: Yes. Giving a heartworm preventative to a dog that already has heartworms may cause a severe reaction that could be harmful or even fatal for your pet.
For this reason you will also need to have a veterinarian’s prescription to purchase Heartgard.
