Can NexGard PLUS Replace Heartgard for Dogs?
Pet owners concerned with comprehensive parasite protection have likely heard of Heartgard, a trusted heartworm preventative. However, the emergence of NexGard PLUS offers a potentially more convenient solution. But can NexGard PLUS truly replace Heartgard? Let’s delve into the facts.
Understanding NexGard PLUS
NexGard PLUS is a prescription-only chewable tablet designed for monthly use in dogs. It combines three active ingredients—afoxolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel—to offer broad-spectrum protection against both internal and external parasites.
What NexGard PLUS Protects Against:
- Fleas and Ticks: Afoxolaner rapidly kills adult fleas and four species of ticks.
- Heartworm Disease: Moxidectin prevents the development of heartworm larvae.
- Intestinal Parasites: Pyrantel treats and controls roundworms and hookworms.
How NexGard PLUS Compares with Heartgard
Heartgard is a well-known medication that uses ivermectin (and pyrantel in Heartgard Plus) to prevent heartworm disease and treat hookworms and roundworms. However, it doesn't protect against fleas or ticks. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | NexGard PLUS | Heartgard Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Heartworm Prevention | ✔️ Yes | ✔️ Yes |
| Flea Protection | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Tick Protection | ✔️ Yes | ❌ No |
| Roundworm/Hookworm | ✔️ Yes | ✔️ Yes |
| Monthly Dosing | ✔️ Yes | ✔️ Yes |
Convenience of NexGard PLUS
One of the key benefits of NexGard PLUS is its all-in-one approach. Instead of juggling multiple medications to protect a dog from fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal parasites, owners can give a single chew once a month. This not only simplifies treatment but also improves the likelihood of compliance over time.
Dosing and Administration
NexGard PLUS is approved for puppies aged 8 weeks or older and weighing at least 4 pounds. It's available in various strengths based on weight categories. Administer the chew on the same day each month and ensure the full dose is consumed. It can be given with or without food.
Key Benefits of NexGard PLUS
- Effectively kills fleas within 4 hours, with 99% effectiveness at 8 hours.
- Tick control for one month, including species such as the American dog tick and black-legged tick.
- Internal parasite protection against 3 types of hookworms and 2 types of roundworms.
- Heartworm prevention with monthly dosing after confirming no existing infection.
- Palatable beef-flavored chew, which many dogs accept readily.
When to Choose NexGard PLUS Over Heartgard
If a dog is already taking Heartgard for heartworm prevention and a separate treatment for fleas or ticks, switching to NexGard PLUS can be a more convenient and cost-effective choice. The once-a-month chew simplifies routines and reduces the risk of missed doses across multiple treatments.
Precautionary Considerations
Before giving NexGard PLUS, dogs should be tested for existing heartworm infection. It’s also important to be cautious in dogs with neurologic histories, as afoxolaner (one of the ingredients) belongs to the isoxazoline class, which can cause tremors or seizures in sensitive dogs. Side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, or itching.
Conclusion: Replacing Heartgard with NexGard PLUS
In essence, NexGard PLUS can replace Heartgard and even expand the spectrum of protection. It offers monthly heartworm prevention like Heartgard, but adds essential coverage against fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms. For many pet owners seeking a simplified and comprehensive solution, NexGard PLUS stands out as the modern and effective alternative to Heartgard.
Recommendations for Pet Owners
- Consult your veterinarian before switching medications.
- Use NexGard PLUS year-round for continuous protection.
- Monitor your dog after administration for any side effects.
- Ensure consistent monthly dosing to maintain effectiveness.
With year-round threats from parasites, a broad-spectrum medication like NexGard PLUS offers peace of mind for both pets and their people.
