Heartgard For Dogs and Cats

Getting a heartworm deterrant is one of the best things you can do for your pet’s

happiness. But…if you’re like most pet owners, you probably have some inquiries. Here are some answers to guide you as you narrow down your research.

Q: What is Heartgard?

A: Heartgard is a prescription that prevents heartworm disease in dogs and cats.

Q: How does it work?

A: Invermectin is the chief ingredient used. It comes in contact with the parasite’s nerve transmission, and then paralyses and kills the young heartworms (larvae).

Q: How often should I give this medication to my pet?

A: 1 time a month.

Note: you should try to give your dog or cat his Heartgard medicine on the same day, every month. The stickers, included in the package, will help you remember.

Q: What if I forget a dose?

A: If the amount of time between doses is more than 30 days, Invermectin’s effectiveness may be reduced.

( Again, Invermectin destroys young heartworms. And missing medications could

allow the heartworms to mature to a point where the product is less effective.)

For that reason, professionals recommend testing your dog or cat for heartworms 61/2 months after the missed dose.

Q: What about sensitive 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, states that the does should be okay if used as

directed.

Q: When should I begin giving my pet Heartgard?

A: Heartgard anhiliates larvae your dog or cat was exposed to within the last 30 days. That said, if

you are going to provide your pet a seasonal preclusive, give it to him

one month after the first mosquito appears.

Q: What about puppies?

A: You can start your puppy on the preclusive when he’s a minimum 6 weeks old.

Q: What if I want to protect my pet against other parasites like intestinal worms?

A: Consider looking into Heartgard Plus. In addition to Invermectin, it contains Pyrantel, which eliminates hookworms and roundworms in addition to heartworms.

Q: cat or dog need to be examined prior to feeding him Heartgard?

A: Yes. Feeding a heartworm preventative to a dog or cat that already is infected heartworms

could cause a severe reaction that may be hazardous or even fatal to your pet.

For this reason you will also have to have a veterinarian’s prescription to purchase 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.