Heartgard Plus

What is Heartgard Plus?

Heartgard Plus is an oral antiparasitic medication intended exclusively for dogs. It is available as a palatable chewable tablet, making it easy to administer even to picky dogs. Heartgard Plus contains two well-known active ingredients: ivermectin and pyrantel.
Each chew is formulated to provide weight-appropriate protection, which is essential to ensure both effectiveness and safety. Heartgard Plus is widely used in Canada and Quebec as part of a veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention program.

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What is Heartgard Plus used for?

Heartgard Plus is used to prevent heartworm disease (dirofilariasis), a serious and potentially fatal condition transmitted by mosquitoes. Once infected, dogs may develop severe heart and lung problems.
In addition to heartworm prevention, Heartgard Plus treats and controls certain intestinal worms, including:

• roundworms
• hookworms

This dual action makes it a comprehensive internal antiparasitic, contributing to the dog’s overall health and reducing the risk of parasite transmission within the household.

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Dosage

The dosage of Heartgard Plus depends exclusively on the dog’s weight. The medication is available in different formats to ensure precise and safe dosing:

• Blue: dogs under 11 kg
• Green: dogs 12–22 kg
• Brown: dogs 23–45 kg

The usual dosage is one chewable tablet per month, corresponding to the dog’s weight category. It is essential to follow your veterinarian’s prescribed dosage to avoid the risk of underdosing or overdosing.
Weigh your dog regularly, especially growing puppies or dogs with fluctuating weight, and consult your veterinarian if a format adjustment is needed.

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How and how often should I give Heartgard Plus to my pet?

Heartgard Plus is administered orally as a palatable chewable tablet. Most dogs take it willingly like a treat. If necessary, the tablet may also be given with food.

• Frequency: once monthly
• It is recommended to give the tablet on the same day each month to maintain continuous protection.-
• Treatment should be administered during the mosquito risk season, according to your veterinarian’s recommendations in Quebec or Canada.

A heartworm test is generally required before starting treatment, especially for older dogs or those with an unknown prevention history.

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What are the side effects and precautions associated with Heartgard Plus?

Heartgard Plus is generally well tolerated when administered as directed. However, as with any medication, side effects may occur, although they are uncommon:

• vomiting
• diarrhea
• temporary lethargy
• loss of appetite

Important precautions:

• Certain dog breeds sensitive to ivermectin, such as Collies, Australian Shepherds, or Shetland Sheepdogs, may require special monitoring.
• Strictly follow weight-based dosing.
• Always consult your veterinarian before starting or changing an antiparasitic treatment.
• Do not use in puppies under 6 weeks of age without veterinary advice.

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