Heart worms are common in dogs and are caused by parasites that are transmitted by mosquitoes. The parasites deposit eggs in to the blood stream of the dog and the resulting parasites grow most commonly in the heart, resulting in the name heart worm. The main symptom that veterinarians look for before running test is a regular cough in the dog. Ivermectin is used to prevent heart worms and is also used to treat new heart worm infestations. It will not kill adult worms and can not be used to treat advanced heart worms. Ivermectin comes in liquid or tablet form, but the liquid form is less expensive.
Things You'll Need
- Ivermectin
- Dog food
- CC measuring dropper
Instructions
Weigh your dog by picking him up and standing on a scale. Record the weight while holding him and then weigh yourself alone. Subtract your weight from the weight of both of you and you are left with the dogs weight.
Calculate the correct dosage of ivermectin by multiplying .009 by your dogs weight. For example, if your dog weighs 50 pounds, you will multiply .009 by 50 and the correct dosage will be .45 cc of the medication.
Measure the correct dosage and mix it in with a small amount of food. Watch to ensure that the dog eats all of the food.
Repeat the ivermectin dosage every two weeks for six months to ensure that the infestation is gone.
Give the same dose of ivermectin once a month after the six month treatment to prevent heart worms.