Dog Flea & Heartworm Prevention

Of all the things you will do for your pet, flea and heartworm prevention should be near the top of the list. These medications are important to the health and comfort of dogs, cats and a variety of other companion pets.

  1. Flea Prevention

    • An effective flea preventative will usually contain either fipronil or imidacloprid. Some of the inexpensive flea medications contain pyrethrin, which may be dangerous to pets.

    Heartworm Prevention

    • Prescriptions are available for combination flea and heartworm preventatives. These medications contain lufeneron and milbemycin.

    Application

    • Most flea preventatives are administered topically (usually on the back of the dog's neck), while heartworm preventatives and combination medications are taken in a monthly oral dose.

    Benefits

    • Parasites such as fleas and heartworms can cause a number of health problems and physical discomfort in household pets. Prevention of parasite infestation is important. In the case of heartworms, prevention may save an animal's life.

    Warning

    • Allergic reactions to flea and heartworm preventatives are rare but possible. Keep close watch over any pet after the administration of a new medication.