Being a good owner and taking good care of a dog can be challenging because they are susceptible to disease and pest infestations.
Dogs can be affected by many illnesses, ranging from the common cold to more serious conditions like cancer. Pests, such as fleas and ticks, can also infect dogs and cause them a great deal of discomfort.
The good news is that there are many pet medications available to help your dog recover from these diseases and get rid of pests. Two of the most popular treatments for flea infestations are Stronghold and Revolution.
Many dog owners ask, “Is Stronghold the same as Revolution?” Let’s take a look at these two medications and explore why they are effective in treating disease and infestation.
What Is Stronghold?
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Stronghold is a dog medication that prevents heartworm, controls flea and tick infestation, and treats ear mites. The concentration and application depend on the size and weight of your pet.
What Is Revolution?
Revolution is a parasiticide similar to Stronghold. It is used to kill adult fleas and prevent flea eggs from hatching. It also prevents heartworm and protects dogs from other parasites.
Is Stronghold The Same As Revolution?
The short answer is that, yes, Stronghold and Revolution are the same medication. They are both topical treatments for fleas and ticks and are used in the same manner. They both contain the active ingredient selamectin.
Both are safe and effective treatments for fleas and ticks and can be used on dogs of all sizes. The main difference is how they are packaged.
If you're unsure which one to choose, talk to your veterinarian and discuss whether Stronghold or Revolution is the best option for your dog and its condition.
What Is Selamectin?
Selamectin is a potent antiparasitic drug used to prevent various infections in dogs. It is available in oral and topical formulations. Selamectin has a wide safety margin and is well tolerated by dogs.
It is effective against heartworm, roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm. Selamectin is also effective against external parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and ear mites.
Stronghold and Revolution both contain selamectin, which means you can use either one to treat your dog’s pest infestation. However, it is a prescription medication that only a licensed vet can prescribe.
How To Apply Dog Medicines With Selamectin
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Selamectin is a topical medication used to prevent parasitic infections in dogs. It works by killing the larvae of parasites, such as heartworm, before they can mature.
Selamectin is typically given as a monthly treatment, and the dosage for each application depends on your dog’s size and weight. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s directions when dispensing medication.
The topical formulation of selamectin is available as a spot-on solution, whereas the oral formulation is available as chewable tablets. Stronghold and Revolution are spot-on solutions.
Here’s how to apply spot-on selamectin treatments like Stronghold and Revolution:
- Remove the tube from the package.
- Hold the tube upright and push the cap down until you hear a click. This indicates that the cap has punctured the applicator seal. Remove the cap and check if the tube is open.
- Part the hair on the back of your pet near the base of its neck until you have a clear view of your pet’s skin.
- Apply the tip of the tube directly on the skin. Squeeze the tube three to four times in one spot.
- Compress the tube as far as possible to squeeze out all of the solution.
- While squeezing, drag the tube away from the pooling liquid and lift it up.
- Make sure the tube is empty and avoid contact between the product and your skin.
You must avoid the following when applying Stronghold or Revolution on your pet’s skin:
- Do not massage the product into your pet’s skin.
- Do not apply the product if your dog’s hair or skin is wet.
- Do not use the product if your dog has broken skin or open wounds.
- Do not use Revolution or Stronghold on sick, weakly, or underweight animals.
It’s best to get your pet thoroughly tested for heartworm. This involves a blood test and a complete physical. Your vet can then recommend the proper treatment and dosage.
While selamectin is great for preventing and treating flea and tick infestations, note that it does not repel pests. This means your dog can still become infested if it comes into contact with them.
For this reason, you must continue to monitor your dog for any signs of flea or tick activity, even if it is on selamectin.
Side Effects Of Selamectin
Spot-on treatments are easy to administer and are typically very effective. However, they can be toxic if not used properly, so it is essential to follow the instructions on the package.
Selamectin is a safe and effective medication for most dogs, but like any medication, it can have side effects. These side effects are rare but can still manifest in some dogs.
The most common side effects include the following:
- Loose stool
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Salivation
- Muscle tremors
If your dog experiences any of these side effects, take it to the vet immediately for treatment.
Which To Choose: Stronghold Or Revolution?
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It does not matter which preventative dog medication you use. Stronghold and Revolution contain the same active ingredient that controls fleas and ticks, prevents heartworm, and eliminates other parasites.
The choice of treatment primarily depends on what your veterinarian thinks will suit your dog’s weight and size.
So the next time you want a topical dog medicine to treat a pest infestation, consult your vet and get your pet checked thoroughly for the best treatment and dosage. Follow all instructions to the letter to ensure that your dog will benefit from the medicine you provide.
