Treatment of heartworm infestation is tough and dangerous. It is better to prevent the problem before it steps in. And to prevent it, the best way is to protect your dog from mosquito bites. However, it is unfortunate that we cannot do it 100%. Dogs can be protected from mosquitoes to some extent only if they remain indoors when mosquitoes feed, i.e. late afternoons and evenings. Therefore we should use the drugs available in the market that are heartworm preventives, like Interceptor, Heartgard and selamectin. You will get more information about heartworm medicines here.
Heartworm Medications
Heartworm preventive medicines are always better for dogs. Interceptor is an orally administered preventive to be given once in a month. It acts against the L4 larvae. It is marketed in different dosages based on the weight of dog. Interceptor is also effective in controlling roundworms, hookworms and whipworms. It is safe to use on Collies and their crosses.
Heartgard is another effective preventive also to be given once in a month. This too acts against the L4 larvae. Dogs need not be heartworm-free to start this drug and dogs suffering for as long as two months before the start of the treatment won’t develop heartworms.
One more medicine is selamectin which too is once-a-month drug in liquid form to be applied to the skin of the neck between shoulder blades of the dog. It is available at the veterinarian in premeasured dosages depending on the age and size of the dog. This drug also controls fleas and prevents their eggs from hatching for a month. Moreover, it also treats ear mites and scabies-causing mites.
Heartworm Prevention Program
Particularly when you are taking your dog to a heartworm infested area, the dog should be given a heartworm prevention program. Discuss with your veterinarian and follow their instructions for prevention.
The heartworm prevention program should ideally be started at 6 to 8 weeks of age in areas having prevalence of the infection, or as soon after that as dictated by climatic conditions. Wherever the problem is year-round, the dog should be kept permanently on preventive drugs.
Importance of Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm prevention is necessary for the dog’s entire life. All dos of age 7 months r more must have an antigen test for heartworms prior to starting a prevention program. If the dog is positive to the test, a microfilaria concentration test must be done. The antigen test must be repeated every year or as frequently as the veterinarian prescribes, even if your dog is on a prevention program.
Your four-legged friend is precious because s/he is your true friend and cannot talk about what s/he is suffering from. Therefore, you should ensure that s/he is healthy throughout the life.