Collie dogs, unlike many other breeds, are more susceptible to toxins found in heartworm medications. This is due to a genetic difference in the breed compared to other breeds. While collies can take most heartworm medications, collie owners need use care when giving heartworm medications to their pets.
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Monthly Medications
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Monthly medications, like Heartgard Rx, Interceptor, and ProHeart Rx, are safe if used according to package directions. When larger amounts were given, toxicity problems have been found. In Heartgard Rx and Interceptor, 10 times the normal amount will cause toxin issues. In ProHeart Rx, 30 times the amount will cause problems.
Vets will usually recommend this course as long as the collie is given only the correct dosage once a month. This medication should not be doubled if a collie misses a month. Also, do not dilute monthly medications designed for larger dogs to give to collies, as this also leads to toxin issues.
Daily Medication
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The daily medication carbamazine is safe for collie breeds to use. No possible health complications have be recorded with carbamazine in collies. There is some question on the effectiveness of carbamazine overall, but many collie owners choose to give their dogs this medication despite that due to the health issues that may occur.
Combination Medications
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In 2010, two combination medications combine flea and heartworm protection into one medication. The two medications are Sentinel Rx and Revolution Rx.
Sentinel Rx will have the same health issues as Interceptor, which is part of the medication. Revolution doesn't have any health issues listed for collies. Both medications are expensive and not considered as effective as taking two separate medications for heartworm and fleas.
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