What is Heartgard?

Purchasing a heartworm preventative is one of the best things you can do for you pet's health. If you're trying to decide where to purchase Heartgard (or some other alternative), here are a few suggestions that will help you narrow down your search.

Heartgard is a veterinary prescription made for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs and cats.  It is fitted for use in canines of all weights, sizes, and breeds of dogs-including Collies and other potentially ivermectin-sensitive breeds, as the amount of ivermectin in a directed dose of Heartgard is considerably lower than the amounts needed to cause unfavorable reactions.  It is also used for the control of hookworm in cats.

Generics

Invermectin is the central ingredient used in Heartgard.  Thus, Heartgard can be replaced with any generic prescription that uses the same amount of Ivermectin.  Iverhart is the generic equivalent to Heartgard.  Iverhart Max is the generic version of Heartgard Plus with an added ingredient that stops and prevents tapeworms.  Valuheart is an additional generic that offers significant savings.

Know that even online sites will require proof of prescription before they will ship you medicine. The easiest way to get a prescription is from your local, licensed veterinarian.

For Dogs

Dogs over six months old should be tested for heartworm disease prior to being put on any medication, and tested annually thereafter.  Dogs are a very oral breed of creature.  Dog toys are often carted around in a dog's mouth.  For dogs, Heartgard is available in a once-monthly tablet or beef flavored chewable and uses ivermectin as the central ingredient.  For dogs that typically swallow treats whole, the tablet can be broken into pieces.  Heartgard is so easy to give because my puppy thinks it's a treat.

For Cats

Heartgard for cats is available in a once-monthly chewable tablets and aids in the elimination and control of hookworms as well as heartworms.  The prescription is okayed for use in cats of any weight, six weeks of age and up.  The typical dose for cats 5 pounds or less is 55 mcg and for cats 6-15 pounds is 165 mcg.  Side effects in cats may include agitation, loss of appetite, staggering, dilated pupils, tremors, blindness and disorientation.

Heartgard is completely safe to use on your cat or dog regardless of weight, breed or whether or not they are pregnant.  It is 100% effective against heartworms; and it manages roundworms.  But it is available only through a licensed veterinarian.

In the end, determining what's best for your pet's health will be up to you and your vet. Use these valuable tips to decide if Heartgard is the best fit for your pet's needs.