Heartworms are a common problem that ever pet owner
faces at one point or another in their pet's life. Use the tips in this
article to prevent heartworms in ways that will allow you to beat the
problem before it turns into something hard to handle.
Heartgard
is a veterinary prescription designed for the prevention of heartworm
disease in dogs and cats. It is approved for use in dogs of all
weights, sizes, and breeds of dogs-including Collies and other
potentially ivermectin-sensitive breeds, as the amount of ivermectin in
a directed dose of Heartgard is considerably less than the amounts
needed to cause unfavorable reactions. It is also used for the control
of hookworm in cats.
Generics
Invermectin is the
predominant component used in Heartgard. Thus, Heartgard can be
substituted for any generic prescription that contains the same amount
of Ivermectin. Iverhart is the generic equivalent to Heartgard.
Iverhart Max is the generic form of Heartgard Plus with an added
icomponent that neutralizes and prevents tapeworms. Valuheart is an
additional generic that offers considerable savings.
For Dogs
Dogs
over six months old should be checked for heartworm disease prior to
using any medication, and tested annually thereafter. Dogs are a very
oral breed of creature. Dog toys are commonly hauled around in a dog's
mouth. For dogs, Heartgard is available in a once-monthly tablet or
beef flavored chewable and contains ivermectin as the predominant
icomponent. For dogs that usually swallow treats whole, the tablet can
be broken into pieces. Heartgard is so easy to give many dogs will
think it's a treat.
For Cats
Heartgard for cats is
available in a once-monthly chewable tablets and aids in the removal
and control of hookworms as well as heartworms. The prescription is
recommended for use in cats of any weight, six weeks of age and up. The
regular dose for cats 5 pounds or less is 55 mcg and for cats 6-15
pounds is 165 mcg. Side effects in cats include agitation, loss of
appetite, staggering, dilated pupils, tremors, blindness and
disorientation.
Heartgard is completely safe to use on your cat
or dog regardless of weight, breed or whether or not they are pregnant.
It is one hundred percent effective in the fight against heartworms;
and it subordinated roundworms too. But it is available only through a
licensed veterinarian.
In the end, the final choice in deciding
what's best for your dog or cat's health will be up to you. Use the
tips in this article to find the best course of action for and find
yourself sleeping a little better at night.
