Heartgard Plus is for dogs, formulated with ivermectin and pyrantel. This combination tackles roundworms and hookworms and neutralizes the larval stages of heartworms, safeguarding your canine from heartworm disease. Suitable for dogs of all sizes, it's recommended for those aged six weeks and above.
Administer Heartgard® Plus to your dog once every month. If you're switching from another heartworm prevention product, ensure that Heartgard® Plus is given within 30 days of the last dose of the previous medication. While giving it with food is optional, doing so can enhance absorption. It's crucial to ensure your dog chews the medication before swallowing it whole. If they don't consume the entire dose, giving a new chewable for optimal protection is wise.
Heartgard Plus Active Ingredient
Heartgard Plus for dogs contains two active ingredients:
- Ivermectin: This antiparasitic medication works against heartworms by killing the larvae (baby worms) before they can grow and mature into adult heartworms.
- Pyrantel Pamoate: This ingredient is effective against hookworms and roundworms, two common intestinal parasites in dogs.
Together, these two ingredients provide a broad spectrum of protection against some dogs' most common parasitic infections. Always consult a veterinarian before administering any medication to ensure it's appropriate for your pet.
Heartgard Plus Manufacturer
Boehringer Ingelheim, a global pharmaceutical company, manufactures Heartgard Plus. They are known for producing various animal health products, including those for both pets and livestock.
Possible Side Effects of Heartgard
The most common side effects of Heartgard Plus are:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
In addition to those symptoms, Heartgard® Plus can also cause:
- Drooling
- Incoordination
- Fatigue (Lethargy)
- Seizures
- Dilation of the Pupil
Should you suspect any adverse reactions in your pet, seek advice from your vet.
FAQS On HeartGard Plus
How does HeartGard Plus work?
Heartgard Plus targets heartworms in their larval stage, preventing them from maturing into adult heartworms.
Can I give my dog a lower dose of Heartgard Plus?
Heartgard chewable medicine should be given to your dog orally every month using the recommended minimum dose of 6.0 micrograms of ivermectin for every kilogram of your dog's weight. However, a lower dose isn't recommended.
Can you split Heartgard Plus in half?
Heartgard Plus shouldn't be divided in half because it's possible to cut it unevenly, which could affect its formulation and potency.
Can I give my dog a higher dose of Heartgard Plus?
Though Heartgard has a wide margin of safety and does not cause toxicity even at ten times the recommended dose, elevated doses (16 times more than the required dose) may have adverse effects, especially on sensitive dog breeds like Collies.
Do dogs need Heartgard Plus year-round?
Veterinarians recommend administering Heartgard Plus as preventive care for dogs year-round because the risk of heartworm infection is constant in almost all environments. For example, where there are mosquitoes and possible animal carriers, there is always a risk of contracting the disease.
Is Heartgard Plus necessary in winter?
There may be fewer mosquitoes during winter, but there is still a risk of infection, so yes, Heartgard is essential even in winter. However, there is no "downtime" worth risking your dog's life for regarding this deadly disease.
Can Nexgard and Heartgard Plus be given on the same day?
Yes, giving both to your dogs on the same day is safe. They target different health concerns, and there are no contraindications.
How long does it take for Heartgard Plus to be digested/absorbed?
Depending on age and breed, a dog usually takes 2 to 8 hours to digest and absorb Heartgard.
Does Heartgard Plus kill fleas and ticks?
Unfortunately, no. Heartgard Plus prevents heartworms while treating and controlling parasites such as ascarids and hookworms. If you'd like to prevent fleas and ticks, use Heartgard Plus with NexGard, another chewable supplement by Boehringer Ingelheim.
Can you give Comfortis and Heartgard Plus together?
Yes. Comfortis and Heartgard Plus are safe to use together. Comfortis focuses on fleas, while Heartgard Plus protects against heartworms.
Can you use Heartgard Plus and Frontline together?
Yes, Heartgard Plus and Frontline can be safely used together. Heartgard Plus prevents heartworms, while Frontline treats fleas and ticks while repelling mosquitoes that can cause heartworms.
