Understanding What BRAVECTO Does for Dogs
As caring pet owners, ensuring our dogs are protected from harmful parasites such as fleas and ticks is essential. BRAVECTO is a veterinary-prescribed medication designed to safeguard your dog from these pests effectively. But what exactly does BRAVECTO do to dogs, and how does it work?
What Is BRAVECTO?
BRAVECTO is an oral or topical flea and tick treatment made for dogs and prescribed by veterinarians. It contains the active ingredient fluralaner, which belongs to the isoxazoline class of parasiticides. Fluralaner works systemically to kill parasites that feed on the dog's blood.
How BRAVECTO Works
Once administered, BRAVECTO enters the dog's bloodstream. When a flea or tick bites the dog, it ingests the fluralaner, which then disrupts the parasite's nervous system, leading to death.
- Starts killing fleas within 2 hours of administration
- Kills over 95% of fleas and ticks within 12 hours
- Provides protection for up to 12 weeks with one dose
This mechanism ensures that fleas and ticks are not only eliminated but also prevented from reproducing, thereby interrupting their life cycle and reducing future infestations.
Benefits of BRAVECTO for Dogs
BRAVECTO provides several benefits that make it a top choice among veterinarians and pet owners:
- Long-lasting protection: A single dose guards against fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks.
- Convenient dosing: Oral chews or topical applications mean fewer treatments to remember.
- Reduces risk of diseases: Fleas and ticks carry harmful pathogens. BRAVECTO helps prevent diseases such as Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis.
- Safe for dogs: BRAVECTO is safe for puppies 6 months and older and weighing at least 4.4 lbs.
Potential Side Effects
Although BRAVECTO is generally well-tolerated, some dogs may experience side effects, which may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- In rare cases: seizures, particularly in dogs with a history of neurological disorders
It's important to discuss your dog's medical history and sensitivity with a veterinarian before starting BRAVECTO, especially if your dog has a known neurological condition.
Administering BRAVECTO
There are two forms of BRAVECTO:
- Oral Chew: Tasty and easy to administer with food
- Topical Solution: Applied directly to the skin on the back of the neck
Both forms should be given once every 12 weeks. Regular administration ensures uninterrupted protection throughout the year.
When to Use BRAVECTO
Flea and tick infestations can occur year-round, not just in warmer months. Consistent use of BRAVECTO helps:
- Prevent infestations before they begin
- Protect pets that spend time outdoors or in areas with high parasite loads
- Reduce allergic reactions caused by flea bites, such as flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)
Comparing BRAVECTO with Other Treatments
What sets BRAVECTO apart from other flea and tick preventatives?
- Duration: Most treatments require monthly administration, but BRAVECTO lasts three times longer.
- Speed: Begins working quickly, within hours.
- Ease: Fewer doses per year mean more convenience for pet owners
Veterinary Approval and Research
BRAVECTO has undergone rigorous studies and is approved by the FDA and EMA. Clinical trials show its effectiveness and safety in a wide range of dog breeds and sizes. Veterinarians often recommend BRAVECTO as part of a comprehensive parasite control plan.
Conclusion
In summary, BRAVECTO is a powerful and convenient option for protecting dogs from fleas and ticks. With its long-lasting protection, ease of use, and veterinarian endorsement, it’s quickly become a preferred choice for many pet owners. However, as with any medication, it’s essential to consult your vet to ensure it’s the best fit for your pet’s unique needs.
