What NexGard PLUS Does Not Cover: Essential Information for Dog Owners
NexGard PLUS is a widely-used monthly chewable treatment that offers comprehensive protection for dogs against many parasites. With its convenient beef-flavored formula, it is popular for its effectiveness against fleas, ticks, heartworm larvae, hookworms, and roundworms. However, like all veterinary medications, it has specific limitations pet owners need to understand. This guide outlines what NexGard PLUS does not protect against and provides detailed information to help you make informed decisions about your dog’s health.
What Is NexGard PLUS?
NexGard PLUS is a prescription-only, oral chewable tablet used monthly to protect dogs against a range of common parasites. It contains three active ingredients:
- Afoxolaner: Kills adult fleas and four species of ticks
- Moxidectin: Prevents heartworm disease by targeting larvae acquired in the preceding month
- Pyrantel: Treats and controls roundworms and hookworms
These components work synergistically to deliver broad-spectrum internal and external parasitic protection.
What NexGard PLUS Covers
- Kills adult fleas (Ctenocephalides felis)
- Kills ticks including black-legged, brown dog, American dog, and lone star ticks
- Prevents heartworm disease caused by infection of Dirofilaria immitis larvae
- Treats and controls roundworms (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina)
- Treats and controls hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma braziliense, Uncinaria stenocephala)
What NexGard PLUS Does NOT Cover
Despite its broad protection, NexGard PLUS does not eliminate all parasites or handle every stage of infection. Key exclusions include:
- Adult Heartworms: NexGard PLUS kills heartworm larvae, but does not treat dogs already infected with adult heartworms. A heartworm test is required before starting the medication.
- Tapeworms: No activity against tapeworm species such as Dipylidium caninum or Echinococcus spp.
- Whipworms: Not effective against whipworm (Trichuris vulpis) infestations.
- Other Parasites: Does not target mites, lice, protozoa (like Giardia or Coccidia), or fungal infections.
- Viruses and Bacteria: NexGard PLUS is not designed to treat or prevent viral or bacterial diseases.
Safety Limitations and Usage Considerations
- Not for Humans: Strictly formulated for dogs, it must be kept away from children and other animals.
- Not evaluated for pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs
- Caution with Neurologic Conditions: Use with care in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders.
- Weight Limitations: Only approved for dogs weighing a minimum of 4 pounds and older than 8 weeks.
Important Usage Guidelines to Ensure Effectiveness
To maintain optimal protection, follow these best practices:
- Administer on the same day each month
- Ensure your dog consumes the entire chew
- Re-administer if vomiting occurs within 2 hours
- Do not store half-chewed tablets
- Test annually for heartworm infection
Signs Your Dog May Need Additional Protection
Dogs may require additional medications if you observe signs of parasitic infections not covered by NexGard PLUS.
- Weight loss, scooting, or visible worms in stool: Possible tapeworm or whipworm infection
- Coughing, lethargy: Potential sign of advanced heartworm disease
- Itchy skin, hair loss, red patches: Could indicate mites or fungal infection
- Digestive upset like diarrhea or gas: May result from protozoa or dietary issues
Recommended Complementary Measures
- Use environmental treatments to reduce flea, tick, and mosquito presence
- Practice good hygiene and regular grooming
- Schedule regular veterinary check-ups and fecal exams
- If needed, combine NexGard PLUS with additional dewormers or anti-parasitics
- Consult your veterinarian before combining treatments
Why Understanding Limitations Is Crucial
While NexGard PLUS is a highly effective and convenient product for protecting your dog from several harmful parasites, no preventive covers every threat. Pet owners must be aware of what their chosen product includes and excludes to ensure comprehensive care for their pets.
By recognizing the boundaries of NexGard PLUS coverage—and by conducting routine veterinary checkups—you will be better equipped to keep your dog safe from unseen and potentially dangerous parasites not handled by this medication.
