Topical heartworm prevention is applied to the skin of the dog’s back neck. These are less expensive than the oral heartworm preventions but require more frequent applications (usually every month).
Your veterinarian will administer injectable heartworm prevention every six months. These are good options for dogs that don’t take pills well or are resistant to topical heartworm prevention.
It doesn’t matter what heartworm prevention you choose. You must give it as instructed to your dog and continue to administer it monthly or biannually. Your dog will be protected from heartworm disease if you follow these instructions.
Heartworm prevention in dogs: Medications used
The medications used to prevent heartworms in dogs are usually given either topically or orally every month. Ivermectin is the most effective and common heartworm prevention medication. It can be given in pill form, as a chewable tablet or as a topical solution. Ivermectin kills heartworm larvae, before they become adults that can damage the heart or lungs. Milbemycin oxime is another heartworm prevention medication, as are selamectin and moxidectin. Most dogs tolerate these medications well, but they can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting diarrhea and lethargy. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best heartworm prevention medication for your dog.
The conclusion of the article is:
Dogs are susceptible to heartworm disease, which is a potentially fatal condition. Heartworms, which are thin and long worms, live in the lungs and heart of infected dogs. The mosquitoes that transmit them can infect your dog even if he never leaves the house. Heartworm disease can cause coughing, exercise intolerance, breathing difficulties, and weight loss. Heartworm disease is fatal if left untreated.
Heartworm prevention is the best way to protect against heartworms in dogs. It should be given to them every month throughout the year. Your veterinarian can guide you in choosing the right heartworm prevention for your pet.