Heartgard Plus for Dogs

You may have heard of Heartgard® and Heartgard Plus®, and wonder what the difference is between the two. Well, Heartgard is pork based, so if your dog is allergic to beef, then this would be the logical choice.

Heartgard Plus for dogs, which is a beef based product, is a more enhanced formula with pyrantel. That is a substance that can eradicate intestinal worms by honing in on the worms’ nervous system, and causing paralysis and eventually, death. The other major ingredient is Ivermectin which targets the heartworm larvae, just like the Heartgard does. Thus, Heartgard Plus has the added benefit of being able to do more than just a prevent heartworm, roundworm, and hookworm from infecting your dog.

This chewable tablet is something dogs enjoy eating. It should be given once a month, preferably exactly 30 days after the previous dose, and should not be used on dogs that are less than a month and a half old.

If your vet prescribes this treatment for your dog, make sure that your dog does not swallow the tablet whole. If you want, you can break the tablet into pieces. Just make certain that your dog gets the full dose. Usually, the treatment will last a minimum of one year. It is important not to skip any dose, even in the most extreme weather conditions. If for any reason, your dog gets sick (of another ailment), and needs to be medicated, consult with the vet and let him know that he is taking Heartgard Plus for dogs. The reason for this is to make sure that no conflict arises.

You should also have your dog tested prior to giving this drug because your dog may already have the adult heartworms, and a more intense treatment than Heartgard Plus will be required. This is because this product cannot kill adult heartworms that are already clinging to the arteries or blocking them. Heartgard Plus for dogs is a preventive treatment which means if your dog has a full blown infection or disease, your vet should recommend something stronger or more radical like surgery.

Some herding breeds like the Collies may not react well to Heartgard Plus. In fact, if you have been prescribed Heartgard Plus for your Collie, you will need to keep a watchful eye over your dog for at least 8 hours after the first dose. Look for trembling, weakness, fatigue, dilated pupils, or drooling. If any of these side effects are present, bring your dog to the vet immediately.

One word of caution when you have a dog that is infected with the larvae of worms. Some parasites can transfer from a dog to humans; children are especially at higher risk than adults because they like to play on the ground where the larvae of roundworms or hookworms may be. When a human gets infected, he could suffer from problems with his liver, brain, eyes, and lungs. At the very least, an infection could result in skin rashes and itchy skin.

The best way to prevent your family from getting infected through the saliva, urine, or feces of your dog is to make sure proper hygiene is observed after being in contact with your dog. Also, since the saliva can transfer to rugs and pillows, ask your family to keep the dog away from areas where children like to play.