Heartgard and NexGard for Dogs?
While Heartgard and NexGard have proven effective in preventing and treating a variety of parasites, there are still some concerns about their safety and potential side effects. In this article, we will explore the uses, pros and cons, side effects, adverse reactions, drug interactions, and contraindications of giving Heartgard Plus and NexGard together.
Can you give Heartgard Plus and NexGard together?
Pros:
Both Heartgard Plus and NexGard are effective in preventing and treating heartworm disease and flea infestations in dogs. By administering both medications at the same time, you can ensure that your dog is protected from both parasites.
Both medications are designed to be given monthly, so you only have to remember to give them once per month, rather than remembering two different schedules.
Both Heartgard Plus and NexGard are generally well-tolerated by most dogs, with few side effects reported.
Cons:
While giving both Heartgard Plus and NexGard together may provide added protection against parasites, it may not be necessary in all cases. If your dog is only at risk for heartworm disease or fleas, you may not need to give both medications.
Some dogs may be sensitive to one or both medications, which could result in side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
Both medications can interact with certain drugs, such as certain antibiotics, so it is important to inform your veterinarian if your dog is taking any other medications.
Heartgard Plus is contraindicated in puppies under 6 weeks of age, and NexGard is contraindicated in puppies under 8 weeks of age.
What is the best flea and heartworm medication for dogs?
With so many options available, how do you know which is the best flea and heartworm medication for your dog? Let’s explore some of the top contenders.
NexGard
NexGard is a popular monthly flea and tick preventative medication that has gained a lot of attention in recent years. It comes in a chewable form that dogs tend to enjoy, and it is effective at killing fleas before they have a chance to lay eggs. Additionally, it also helps to prevent heartworm and other harmful parasites.
Trifexis
Trifexis is another monthly medication that helps protect against both fleas and heartworm. It also includes protection against hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm. It comes in a chewable form, making it easy to administer to your dog, and it works quickly to kill fleas and prevent them from returning.
Sentinel
Sentinel is a monthly medication that helps to prevent heartworm and fleas. It also includes protection against hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm. Unlike some of the other medications on this list, Sentinel comes in a tablet form, which can be a bit more difficult to administer to some dogs.
Revolution
Revolution is a monthly topical medication that helps to protect against fleas, ticks, and heartworm. It also helps to prevent ear mites and some types of intestinal worms. This medication is applied to the skin on the back of your dog’s neck, making it an easy and mess-free option for those who prefer not to give their dog oral medications.
Heartgard
Heartgard is a monthly medication that focuses solely on protecting against heartworm. It comes in a chewable form that most dogs find palatable, and it is easy to administer. However, it does not protect against fleas or ticks, so you may need to combine it with another medication if your dog is at risk for those pests.
FAQs about NexGard and Heartgard for dogs
We’ll answer some frequently asked questions about these products.
What is NexGard and how does it work?
NexGard is a monthly chewable tablet that helps prevent fleas and ticks in dogs. It contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which kills fleas and ticks by targeting their nervous system. It’s a convenient and easy-to-administer option for dog owners who want to keep their pets protected from these pesky parasites.
What is Heartgard and how does it work?
Heartgard is a monthly chewable tablet that helps prevent heartworm disease in dogs. It contains the active ingredient ivermectin, which kills the larval stages of heartworms before they can mature and cause damage to the dog’s heart and lungs. It’s an effective and easy way to protect your dog from this potentially life-threatening disease.
Can NexGard and Heartgard be given together?
Yes, NexGard and Heartgard can be given together. In fact, many veterinarians recommend using both products as part of a comprehensive parasite prevention plan. NexGard will help protect your dog from fleas and ticks, while Heartgard will protect them from heartworms. It’s important to always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any medications, including parasite preventatives.
Are there any side effects of NexGard and Heartgard?
As with any medication, there is a potential for side effects with NexGard and Heartgard. Some dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy after taking these products. However, these side effects are typically mild and short-lived. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms in your dog after giving them NexGard or Heartgard.
Do NexGard and Heartgard require a prescription?
Yes, both NexGard and Heartgard require a prescription from a veterinarian. This is because these products contain active ingredients that can potentially be harmful if not used correctly. Your veterinarian will be able to determine if these products are safe and appropriate for your dog based on their health history and current medication regimen.
Can NexGard and Heartgard be given to puppies?
Yes, both NexGard and Heartgard can be given to puppies. However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving any medications to young dogs. Puppies may require different dosages or frequencies than adult dogs, and your veterinarian can help determine the best parasite prevention plan for your furry friend.
How long does NexGard and Heartgard last?
NexGard is a monthly chewable tablet that lasts for 30 days, and should be given to your dog once a month. Heartgard is also a monthly chewable tablet that lasts for 30 days, and should also be given to your dog once a month. It’s important to administer these products on a regular schedule to ensure maximum effectiveness.
What is the difference between NexGard and Frontline?
NexGard and Frontline are both popular flea and tick prevention products for dogs, but they work in different ways. NexGard is a chewable tablet that contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which targets the nervous system of fleas and ticks to kill them. Frontline is a topical solution that is applied directly to the skin, and contains the active ingredient fipronil, which kills fleas and ticks on contact. Your veterinarian can help determine which product is best for your dog’s individual needs.
What is the difference between Heartgard and Sentinel?
Heartgard and Sentinel are both popular heartworm prevention products for dogs, but they work in slightly different ways. Heartgard contains the active ingredient ivermectin, which kills the larval stages of heartworms before they can mature and cause damage to the dog’s heart and lungs. Sentinel contains the active ingredients milbemycin oxime and lufenuron, which not only prevent heartworms but also control flea populations by preventing flea eggs from hatching. Your veterinarian can help determine which product is best for your dog’s individual needs.
Can NexGard and Heartgard be given to pregnant or nursing dogs?
It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving NexGard or Heartgard to pregnant or nursing dogs. While these products are generally considered safe, there may be some risks involved in administering medication to pregnant or nursing dogs. Your veterinarian can help determine the best course of action for your pet.
Are there any breed or size restrictions for NexGard and Heartgard?
There are no breed or size restrictions for NexGard or Heartgard. These products can be used in dogs of all breeds and sizes, as long as they are prescribed by a veterinarian and administered according to the instructions on the packaging.
How do I administer NexGard and Heartgard to my dog?
NexGard and Heartgard are both chewable tablets that are usually administered orally. To give NexGard to your dog, simply offer the chewable tablet as a treat or hide it in your dog’s food. For Heartgard, you can offer the chewable tablet as a treat or break it up and mix it into your dog’s food. It’s important to administer the correct dosage based on your dog’s weight, so always consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication.
How do I store NexGard and Heartgard?
NexGard and Heartgard should be stored in a cool, dry place out of reach of children and pets. It’s important to follow the storage instructions on the packaging to ensure the products remain effective. Additionally, always check the expiration date before administering any medication to your dog. Expired medication may be less effective or even harmful to your pet.
How often should I give my dog NexGard and Heartgard?
NexGard and Heartgard are both monthly medications, which means they should be given to your dog once every 30 days. It’s important to administer these medications on a regular schedule to ensure maximum effectiveness. Mark your calendar or set reminders to help you remember when it’s time to give your dog their next dose.
What should I do if my dog vomits after taking NexGard or Heartgard?
If your dog vomits within an hour of taking NexGard or Heartgard, it’s possible that they didn’t fully absorb the medication. In this case, you should contact your veterinarian to see if another dose is necessary. If your dog vomits more than an hour after taking the medication, it’s unlikely that they will need another dose, as the medication has already been absorbed by their body.
Do I still need to use flea and tick prevention if my dog is on Heartgard?
While Heartgard does provide protection against heartworms, it does not protect against fleas and ticks. It’s important to use a separate flea and tick prevention product in addition to Heartgard to ensure comprehensive parasite protection. Your veterinarian can recommend a product that is safe and effective for your dog.
Can NexGard and Heartgard be used in dogs with pre-existing medical conditions?
It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving NexGard or Heartgard to dogs with pre-existing medical conditions. Some conditions may make it unsafe to administer certain medications, so your veterinarian can help determine the best course of action for your dog’s individual needs.
What should I do if my dog misses a dose of NexGard or Heartgard?
If your dog misses a dose of NexGard or Heartgard, give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it has been more than a month since the last dose, you should contact your veterinarian to determine if your dog needs to be retested for heartworms or if any additional precautions are necessary.
