Heartgard Prevents Heartworms
Getting a heartworm preclusive is one of the loving things you can do for your dog’s
wellbeing. However…if you’re like many pet owners, you probably have some questions.
Below are a few answers to guide you as you narrow down your search.
Q: What does Heartgard do?
A: Heartgard is a product that prevents heartworm disease in dogs and cats.
Q: How does Heartgard work?
A: Invermectin is the main ingredient used. It comes in contact with the parasite’s nerveous
system, and then paralyses and kills the young heartworms (larvae).
Q: How often should I feed this medicine to my cat or dog?
A: Once a month.
Note: you should try to give your pet his Heartgard medicine on the same day, every month. The stickers, that come with the package, will help remind you.
Q: What if I forget a dose?
A: If the amount of time between doses is more than thirty days, Invermectin’s effectiveness may be reduced.
( Again, Invermectin destroys budding heartworms. And forgettign doses may
enable the heartworms to mature to a point where the medication is less effective.)
For that reason, experts recommend testing your dog or cat for heartworm infection 61/2 months after the missed dose.
Q: What about fussy breeds like Collies, is this dewormer okay for them?
A: Collies and other related breeds have shown sensitivity to Invermectin. Fortunately, the amount of Invermectin in Heartgard is low. And the manufacturer, Murial, says that the medicine should be okay if given as
directed.
Q: How soon should I begin giving my pet Heartgard?
A: Heartgard kills the larvae your dog or cat was exposed to within the last thirty days. So, if
you are planning to give your dog or cat a seasonal preventative, feed it to her a month after the 1st mosquito appears.
Q: What about puppies?
A: You can begin your puppy on the preclusive when he’s a minimum six weeks old.
Q: What if I want to protect my pet against other parasites like intestinal worms?
A: Consider Heartgard Plus. along with Invermectin, it uses Pyrantel, which destroys hookworms and roundworms as well as heartworms.
Q: oes my pet need to be tested before feeding him Heartgard?
A: Yes. Giving a heartworm preclusive to a dog or cat that already is infected heartworms may cause a severe reaction that may be harmful or even fatal for your cat or dog.
That said you will also have to have a veterinarian’s prescription to buy procure Heartgard.
You may also consider using a generic Heartgard.
This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with [medical subject]. Nothing herein is intended to be or
should be construed to be any sort of medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other m edical specialist.
