Should you give dogs heartworm pills?

A: The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention. One reason is, there’s already a serious problem with people forgetting to give their dogs the heartworm preventatives. It’s a universal problem. Now if you use it year-round, and you miss a month, your dog will probably still be protected.

Is there a topical heartworm medicine for dogs?

Moxidectin topical (brand names: Advantage Multi®, Advocate®, ProHeart®) is a topical avermectin antiparasitic that is used to prevent heartworms and treat intestinal parasites (hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms), and is combined with imidacloprid to also treat fleas.

Do dogs need a heartworm pill every month?

Heartworm disease can be prevented in dogs and cats by giving them medication once a month that also controls various internal and external parasites. Heartworm infections are diagnosed in about 250,000 dogs each year. 1 But there is no good reason for dogs to receive preventives all year; it is just not needed.

When should dogs start heartworm pills?

According to the American Heartworm Society, puppies should be taking heartworm prevention medication monthly as young as 6-8 weeks old. They are just as prone to getting infected as older dogs, so the prevention must start as soon as possible.

Does topical heartworm medicine work?

Even if you give the medication as recommended, your dog may spit out or vomit a heartworm pill—or rub off a topical medication. Heartworm preventives are highly effective, but not 100 percent effective.

What is the best over the counter heartworm medicine for dogs?

Heartgard Plus is one of the most popular heartworm preventatives on the market. It uses ivermectin and pyrantel to protect dogs from heartworms as well as treat and control hookworm and roundworm infestations. It’s easy to give, and compared to the topical options, Heartgard Plus is a very affordable option.

Should I give my dog heartworm medicine in the winter?

As winter descends upon New England in full force, more and more dog owners ask us if we recommend continuing heartworm prevention through the winter months. The short answer is yes. The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention, and we agree.

Can you skip a month of heartworm medicine?

What if my pet has missed a month of heartworm prevention? The simplest answer to those who miss a month of heartworm prevention is to give the dose immediately and restart the monthly preventative schedule.