Heartworms in Dogs

Heartgard and its active agent, Ivermectin, is possibly one of the most important things that any pet owner would be informed of. Those two words and things can potentially save your pet from a rather gruesome pest, the Heartworm. Any loving owner of a proud puppy or a catty kitty should be aware of the threat that the mosquito distributed infection poses and should be ready to deal with it before it even starts. Here are the basics of this important prophylactic and drug.

Ivermectin, the active agent, is a broad spectrum anti-parasitic drug, which means it attacks a wide range of infections. Developed in the 1980’s, this wonder agent fights hard against most intestinal worms, with the notable exception of the tapeworm. This is of course, a blessing for anyone who wants to see spot well into the dog’s later years. While ineffective against fleas and such insects, this works wonders against immature or larval heartworms, which makes Heartgard and Ivermectin the preferred method of preventing the little worms from ever taking a foothold inside your pet. Some side effects are of course feared. Higher doses can cause adverse infects, up to but not limited to, death.

Heartgard, made by Merial, uses Ivermectin to provide your animal with a level of protection from the Heartworms. While this prophylactic can treat as well as prevent the worms from occurring in cats, dogs need to be completely clean before any intelligent or knowledgeable vet would prescribe it. The weight of the animal primarily is taken into consideration if prescribed, as the amount needed changes with the weight of the animal. Care should be taken that an owner does not accidentally give too much or leave it in the open for an animal to discover – the effect, as stated above, could quickly become disastrous. Heartgard also comes in a Plus version, where pyrantel pamoate is added and thus, the drug can also control the onset of roundworms and hookworms. Various organizations have approved its use, as even with Ivermectin the drug does not cause adverse effects, even in Collies. The Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency have both approved its use for most household pets.

These are only the basics of the wonderful drug that could save your pet a lot of pain and you from a lot of Heartache. For more information, you could consult your vet while you’re giving Rover or Paws in for their next checkup.

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