Heartworm Pills

From LoveToKnow Dogs

Heartworm pills are necessary to keep your dog safe from this destructive disease. Since the treatment to kill heartworm is extremely risky, it is best to keep your dog on heartworm pills and prevent the disease in the first place.

Heartworm can strike any dog.

Finding the Best Heartworm Pills for Your Dog

Finding the best heartworm pills for your dog can be a challenge. There are many options available for preventing heartworm in your dog (or cat). The disease is present in nearly every area in the United States, so no dog is immune without treatment. There are two main types of preventative treatment that can be applied by owners. On the spot, monthly treatments are usually good for preventing heartworm and for keeping ticks and fleas away. The other treatment is a chewable pill that can be fed to the dog.

Heartgard

This is one of the more common forms of heartworm medication given to dogs. It's a flavored, chewable pill with the dosage based upon your dog's weight range. The pill must be given to the dog on a monthly basis for it to remain effective. Most owners give the pill year round at their vet's urging. This also keeps the routine of giving the pill regulated so that it isn't forgotten accidentally. Some versions also treat for other parasites, such as roundworm and hookworm.

Revolution

Revolution is a topical treatment applied once a month. Revolution not only prevents heartworm, but also keeps away fleas and ticks. Worried about ear mites or mange? This treatment keeps away those pesky problems as well. Although Revolution is a bit more costly than Heartgard, it also offers more protection for your dog and keeps you from having to purchase multiple medications to prevent both fleas and ticks and heartworm.

Interceptor

These are flavored tablets that prevent heartworm, roundworm, whipworm and hookworm. The pills are beef flavored, so most pets will take them easily without further enticing. The tablets should be given once a month and are a fairly inexpensive form of heartworm prevention. Interceptor also produces a heartworm preventative product for cats.

Sentinel

Another option for a heartworm pill, Sentinel also helps prevent fleas. In addition to preventing heartworm and fleas, the pill guards against adult roundworms, hookworms and whipworms. The makers of Sentinel recommend giving this pet medication once a month, every month of the year.

Generics

There are several companies, such as Iverhart, that have come up with generic versions of popular heartworm pills. Companies like 1-800-PedMeds offer Iverhart and also run specials and other discounts on medications and shipping. You will need a prescription from your veterinarian.

Side Effects

Any type of medication runs the risk of side effects, and heartworm pills aren't any different. Some of the side effects your pet might experience when taking this medication are rare, but can include:

  • Tremors
  • Pupil dilation
  • Weight loss
  • Depression
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

If you have any concerns about administering heartworm pills to your dog or the possible side effects, you should discuss them with your veterinarian. Some veterinarians can also recommend natural remedies that you may prefer to use with your dog, including mosquito sprays and herbs that can kill parasites as they enter the dog's body. Always consult your veterinarian before treating your dog with any medication, either prescription or over the counter. Many substances are toxic to dogs.

Heartworm is a deadly disease that can destroy your dog's heart if allowed to grow unchecked. Prevention is the key to good health, and practicing heartworm prevention can help keep your dog in excellent health for many years to come. .

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