Some medications can make taking care of our pup’s health a breeze. Take Heartgard Plus, for example. This preventive medicine protects dogs against several types of parasites. And it provides all of this protection in one flavored monthly tablet.
Veterinarians recommend heartworm preventives for all pups — regardless of their lifestyle. Check with your vet (you shouldn’t be giving anything to your pet without doing so!), and keep reading to learn if Heartgard Plus could be the right option for your dog.
“Heartgard Plus is a medication used for heartworm prevention and the treatment and control of roundworms and hookworms,” Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch’s on-staff veterinarian, explains.
Even though veterinarians prescribe Heartgard Plus to prevent several parasites, it doesn’t eliminate fleas. So, if your pup was diagnosed with a flea infection, you’ll want to talk to your veterinarian about the right treatment option (Revolution may be worth exploring!).
Yes! A veterinarian has to prescribe Heartgard Plus — so feel free to bring it up when you’re going over preventive care options for your pup.
When your veterinarian gives you the green light to administer this medication to your pup, they’ll also include serving size recommendations based on their weight.
“Heartgard Plus is a flavored chewable tablet given to dogs by mouth,” she explains. “In some cases, pet parents may have to disguise this medication in a tastier treat like cheese.”
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Although it’s uncommon for pups to develop side effects after taking Heartgard Plus, in rare cases, some pets can experience lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, incoordination, staggering, convulsions and excessive drooling.
If your pet has a negative reaction to Heartgard Plus, stop giving it to them and contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s also a good idea to ask about alternatives, like Interceptor Plus or Sentinel.
“Heartworm prevention is recommended for all dogs,” Dr. McCullough urges. “Pet parents should discuss which heartworm preventive medication is right for their dog.”
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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