Along with monthly Interceptor, Heartgard Plus is among the most commonly prescribed monthly heartworm preventatives by veterinarians. While both are very effective against protecting against heartworms, Heartgard seems slightly more effective in treating and preventing roundworms and hookworms, while Interceptor offers the protection against whipworms, which occur more sporadically across the United States.
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Puppies and/or kittens can be safely started on Heartgard typically at age 8-12 weeks, especially important during a time when roundworms and hookworm infestations are common. Heartgard Plus does seem to have a long shelf life of 1-2 years. It comes in very convenient dosing package sizes of up to 25 pound dogs, 26 to 50 pound packaging/dosing, and 51-100 pound packaging and dosing. It is quite safe to use the up to 25 pound size even in small breeds, as owners often wonder if splitting the pill is needed in toy breeds, which is not necessary. |
Side effects are indeed rare, but on occasion pets can have rare digestive, dermatologic, and even more rare neurological side effects. If any of these should occur, I would ask your veterinarian for a prescription for monthly interceptor as an alternative. It is safe to be on Heartgard Plus if another dewormer is needed in a dog, such as Panacur C.
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