Heartgard Chewables
Heartgard chewables are beef-flavored tablets given to dogs for the deterrence of heartworm infestation. The generic name of Heartgard chewables is Ivermectin. These tablets are administered monthly to prevent proliferation of heartworm larvae in dogs and such other infections. Heartgard chewables necessitate a prescription before administering this to your dog.
Heartgard chewables highly recommended for dogs
Aside from requiring a prescription, there is another restriction attached to the use of this drug. Heartgard chewables can only be given to dogs which are over six weeks old. Do not try to dispense the tablet if the dog is below the age of six weeks as this may cause certain unwanted effects and complications to worsen the health state of the pet dog. Moreover, if you worry that the dog might encounter unwanted side effects, be sure to discuss the same with a veterinarian especially if the pet has previously manifested allergic reactions to Ivermectin or beef. This will more or less determine if Heartgard chewables are safe for the pet dog.
Formulations and Recommended Dosage of Heartgard chewables
There are various formulations of Heartgard chewables depending upon the quantity of Ivermectin contained in the tablets. The drug has been packed in differently-colored boxes as the suggested dosage of Heartgard chewables may be different for each dog as it depends upon the weight classifications. However, the generally recommended dosage of Heartgard chewables is 1 chewable tablet which is almost the same depending on the dogs weight; except for those dogs weighing more than 100 pounds wherein the dosage recommended is always a combination of chewable tablets given once a month.
For a dog that weighs up to 25 pounds, the suggested dosage is 1 chewable tablet monthly with the formulation of 68mcg tablet contained in the blue box. For dogs with weights in between 26-50 pounds, 1 chewable tablet monthly with the formulation of 136mcg contained in the green box. For dogs with weights in between 51-100 pounds, 1 chewable tablet monthly with the formulation of 272mcg contained in the brown box. Lastly, for a dog that weighs over 100 pounds, in excess of 1 chewable tablet is given monthly which should be prescribed by the pet doctor.
Worst Side Effects of Heartgard chewables
Based on various clinical studies, no side effects of Heartgard chewables are noted if these are given as prescribed by the pet doctor. Side effects such as dilated pupils, tremors, loss of weight or the worst is death can only be experienced by the dog if administered in an over dosage of the drug.
In cases that you missed giving the Heartgard chewables, just give them immediately after you remembered that you still havent. However, if you have failed to administer the drug for two consecutive months, do not ever try to administer it to your dog again. The best and recommended thing is for you to visit the veterinarian to know if there are certain adjustments needed before giving the medication to be sure your dogs well-being will not be at risk.
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