Is Heartgard a Safe Treatment for Canine Companions?
Preventing Heartworm Disease in Dogs: A Guide to Heartgard and Heartgard Plus
Heartworm disease, transmitted through mosquito bites, poses a threat to dogs nationwide [1]. Understanding the preventive measures available, such as Heartgard and Heartgard Plus, can save your pet's life.
Heartgard and Heartgard Plus are frequently recommended by veterinarians for preventing heartworm disease in dogs. Let's explore their active ingredients and safety precautions.
Understanding Heartgard for Dogs
Heartgard is a medication used for preventing heartworm disease in dogs. Its main active ingredient, ivermectin, targets and kills any immature heartworm larvae acquired through mosquito bites.
Heartgard Plus, in addition to ivermectin, contains pyrantel, an intestinal dewormer that eliminates hookworms and roundworms. The combination of both provides additional protection against intestinal parasites, which are also infectious to humans [1].
Embracing Safety with Heartgard and Heartgard Plus
When properly prescribed by a veterinarian, Heartgard is generally safe for most dogs. Factors such as a dog's breed, existing health conditions, and the type of parasites requiring protection are all taken into account during the prescription process.
However, certain dogs–such as those with seizures or kidney disease–may need a veterinarian's evaluation before being prescribed any heartworm prevention, including Heartgard Plus [2]. It is crucial to follow your veterinarian's advice for the ideal heartworm prevention solution for your pet.
Special Consideration for Sensitive Breeds
Some herding dog breeds, like Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Old English Sheepdogs, may be more sensitive to ivermectin due to a genetic mutation. This mutation can cause ivermectin to cross the blood-brain barrier and potentially result in severe brain damage. A simple genetic test is available to determine if dogs have this sensitivity to ivermectin [2].
Precautions to Remember
Heartgard Plus has been safely administered to millions of dogs without reports of side effects. Common side effects reported in some dogs include low energy, vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, incoordination, confusion, seizures, and drooling. If you notice any side effects in your dog, seek advice from your veterinarian, a local emergency clinic, or the Pet Poison Hotline promptly [3].
Always administer Heartgard Plus according to the recommended dosage and avoid giving it to dogs not intended for the specific product formulation. Do not double doses, as this can lead to an overdose, and always consult your veterinarian if you miss a dose.
It is vital to test all dogs for heartworm infection before starting Heartgard Plus treatment, to make sure that the medication is prescribed only to dogs that do not already have heartworms [1][2]. Lastly, be cautious with the chewable tablets, as dogs that swallow treats whole may be at risk for choking or intestinal obstruction. Breaking the chewables into smaller pieces may help prevent this [4].
In most cases, Heartgard Plus is safe and well-tolerated by most dogs. With proper administration and monitoring, this medication has proven to be a valuable resource in the fight against heartworm disease, providing both prevention and intestinal parasite control [1][3]. As always, follow your veterinarian's instructions for administering Heartgard Plus to minimize risks and ensure optimal pet health.
References
- Heartworm Incidence Map. American Heartworm Society. 2022. Retrieved from: https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/incidence-maps
- Heartgard Plus prescribing information. Retrieved from: https://docs.boehringer-ingelheim.com/AH/HEARTGARD_Plus_PI.pdf
- Heartworm Life Cycle illustration. American Heartworm Society. Retrieved from https://www.heartwormsociety.org/veterinary-resources/practice-tools/heartworm-life-cycle
- Genetic Testing for MDR1. Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center. 2021. Retrieved from: https://www.vmc.msu.edu/ServicesandResources/Pet-owners/Genetic-Testing/MDR1
- Choking Hazard. American Kennel Club. 2021. Retrieved from: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/choking-hazards-for-dogs/
Heartgard and Heartgard Plus, frequently recommended by veterinarians, not only help prevent heartworm disease in dogs but also provide supplementary protection against intestinal parasites like hookworms and roundworms [1]. Therefore, those taking heartworm prevention, including Heartgard Plus, should be mindful of potential side effects such as low energy, vomiting, diarrhea, and more, and seek advice from their veterinarian promptly [3].
