Heartworm & Flea Control for Dogs

Heartworms and fleas are parasites that cause an annoyance both for the dog and for its owner. Fleas make the dog itch and spread between animals easily. Mosquitoes carry heartworms and infect the dog after biting it. Both heartworms and fleas are easily preventable with parasite control medication available from a veterinarian.

  1. Types

    • While there are a number of flea control medications available for dogs, only some of them protect against heartworms. Some flea, tick and heartworm control medications are in liquid form and applied directly to the dog's neck. Other types are in tablet form similar to dog treats to appeal to the dog. Most heartworm and flea control medications contain ivermectin for flea and parasite control, according to the American Heartworm Society. Other medications contain ingredients like selamectin or milbemycin oxime to prevent heartworm disease.

    Time Frame

    • Flea, tick and heartworm preventative medication usually lasts for 30 days. The medicine adsorbs into the oils of the dog's skin and hair follicles which allows it to circulate through the dog's blood stream, according to PetPlace.com. This kills parasites like fleas and heartworms before they have the chance to develop.

    Requirements

    • Flea preventatives that also prevent heartworm are available by prescription and usually require a prescription from a veterinarian. Before prescribing the medication, a veterinarian will likely want to test the dog for heartworms to ensure it does not have the parasites, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.

    Considerations

    • Fleas and heartworms are not common during the winter months or in colder climates. However, the American Heartworm Society recommends year-round prevention because monthly preventative medications also protect the dog against internal parasites such as whipworms and tapeworms.

    Warnings

    • Side effects are rare in monthly heartworm and flea control medications because the medications have low doses of drug, according to the American Heartworm Association. However, ivermectin side effects might include dilated pupils and drunken gait, which can progress to respiratory paralysis and death if left untreated. Side effects of selamectin include vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, drooling, lethargy and muscle tremors. Milbemycin oxime side effects include depression, lethargy, vomiting, staggering, loss of appetite, diarrhea, seizures, weakness and excessive salivation.