Heartworm and Flea Prevention

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We recommend you keep your puppy on heartworm and flea prevention year round. Here is additional information:

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1. **Consult Your Veterinarian**: The first and most important step is to consult your veterinarian. They will assess your puppy's specific needs based on factors like age, breed, health status, and local prevalence of parasites.

 

2. **Heartworm Prevention**: Heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquitoes and can be fatal if left untreated. Your veterinarian may recommend a monthly oral or topical heartworm preventative medication for your puppy. Some common brands include Heartgard, Sentinel, and Interceptor.

 

3. **Flea Prevention**: Fleas can cause itching, irritation, and allergic reactions in puppies. Your veterinarian may recommend a monthly flea preventative treatment. These treatments come in various forms, including topical spot-ons, oral tablets, and collars. Popular options include Bravest and Nexguard, .

 

4. **Combination Products**: Some products offer both heartworm and flea prevention in one treatment. These combination products can be convenient and may offer cost savings compared to using separate medications. Some examples are Simparica Trio and Trifexis. 

 

5. **Regular Administration**: It's crucial to administer heartworm and flea preventatives regularly and according to your veterinarian's instructions. Missing doses or inconsistent use can leave your puppy vulnerable to parasitic infestations.

 

6. **Environmental Control**: In addition to using preventative medications, it's essential to practice good environmental control to minimize your puppy's exposure to parasites. This includes regularly cleaning your home, vacuuming carpets and upholstery, and washing your puppy's bedding.

 

7. **Year-Round Protection**: In many regions, parasites like fleas and mosquitoes are active year-round, so your veterinarian may recommend year-round prevention to keep your puppy protected.

 

8. **Monitor for Signs of Infestation**: Keep an eye out for signs of fleas or heartworm infection in your puppy, such as scratching, skin irritation, coughing, or exercise intolerance. If you notice any unusual symptoms, consult your veterinarian promptly.

 

9. **Regular Veterinary Check-ups**: Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your puppy's health and ensure their preventative care plan is up to date.

 

10. **Educate Yourself**: Take the time to educate yourself about heartworm and flea prevention, including how these parasites are transmitted, signs of infestation, and proper administration of preventative medications. Your veterinarian can provide valuable information and answer any questions you may have.