Transmitted by mosquitoes, immature heartworms enter the dog's skin, travel through tissue and develop in a dog's bloodstream. They end up in the heart, blocking blood flow between the heart and major organs. Heartworms are very dangerous to a dog's health, and if they are not treated, your dog can die. Adult heartworms are difficult to get rid of, and treatment can be harmful to a dog, so preventative medication is necessary to keep your dog healthy.
-
Function of Heartworm Medications
-
Prevent heartworm and treat intestinal parasites with these medications. Dog heartworm medications, such as Heartgard Plus, Interceptor and Sentinel, all perform relatively the same function, with a few small variations. The medications work to kill immature heartworms, preventing adult heartworm infection. They also kill intestinal worms, like hookworms, whipworms or roundworms. Some of these medications will prevent the maturing of flea eggs as well.
Active Ingredients
-
These are as easy to take as a treat! Active ingredients that can be found in heartworm medications include Ivermectin, Pyrantel pamoate, Milbemycin oxime and Praziquantel. Ivermectin, the most widely used medication, works to kill the immature heartworms and prevent the parasite. Pyrantel pamoate, which is found in Heartgard, kills roundworms and hookworms, and is usually used in conjunction with Ivermectin. Milbemycin oxime prevents heartworms and kills flea eggs and larvae. Praziquantel controls tapeworms, and is also used alongside Ivermectin in most cases.
Potential Side Effects
-
Keep your dog healthy and active! Heartworm medicine, if administered properly, is safe for almost all dogs over the age of six weeks. Side effects are rare, but sometimes dogs may exhibit vomiting, drowsiness, diarrhea, loss of appetite, hives, itching or seizures. You should contact your veterinarian if any of these problems arise. Collies are known to be more susceptible to issues with these medicines if they include Milbemycin oxime, so make sure to ask your vet if you have a collie.
Cost
-
Woof! Between the brands of hearworm medication, there is not much variation in price. For a six-month supply, you will pay around $40; for a year supply, around $70 to $80. Your vet will most likely give you the medication for a competitive price, so looking for bargains may be in vain.
Administration
-
Yum! Medicine! All of these medications should be taken with food. It is recommended that you give your dog heartworm medication on the same day of every month. Many brands of heartworm medication are designed to taste good to your pet, so most dogs will take the medication willingly. Some veterinarians recommend that heartworm medicine only be taken during mosquito season, but, especially if you live in a warm, humid climate, it would be advisable to administer the medication year-round. Dosage varies according to your pet's weight.
-