Heartgard Chewable Tablet for Dogs, up to 25 lbs, (Blue Box), 6 Chewable Tablets (6-Month Protection)

What are the Key Benefits of Heartgard?

• Vet-recommended heartworm preventive

• Kills heartworm larvae, preventing adult heartworms from forming

• To be given monthly for consistent, effective year-round protection

• Safe to use in dogs 6 weeks of age and older

• Non-flavored formula is ideal for dogs with meat allergies

How does Heartgard work?

Heartgard is effective against the tissue stage of heartworms for a month (30 days) after infection and as a result, prevents the development of the adult stage.

What is heartworm disease?

Heartworm disease in dogs (dirofilariasis) is a serious and potentially fatal disease. Heartworms spend their adult lives in the pulmonary arteries. The adult worms can cause lasting damage to the heart, lungs and arteries.

How do dogs get heartworms?

Heartworms are transmitted from one dog to another by mosquitoes, which pick up tiny immature heartworms, called microfilariae, when they bite an infected dog. Larvae develop and are then transmitted to another dog when that dog is bitten by the infected mosquito.

Where are dogs at risk for heartworm infection?

All dogs are at risk for heartworm disease, no matter where they live heartworms don't discriminate based on geography. In the past, heartworm disease in the United States was primarily limited to the South and Southeast regions. However, it is now found in all 50 states, in Canada, and is spreading to new areas each year. The American Heartworm Society notes that uncared-for dogs and certain wildlife can be carriers of heartworms. Mosquitoes blown great distances by the wind and the transportation of infected pets to different geographic locations can all contribute to the spread of heartworm disease.

What are the signs of heartworm infection?

Signs of heartworm disease can be subtle and difficult to detect until its later stages. As the disease progresses, signs begin to appear. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice coughing, difficulty breathing, sluggishness and less energy for exercise in your dog. Adult heartworms cause serious harm to your dog's heart, lungs and certain internal organs. Left untreated, heartworm disease can result in loss of consciousness and death.

How are dogs tested for heartworm infection?

The most common method for heartworm testing is for a veterinarian to collect a small blood sample from a dog and evaluate the sample using a specialized test kit to detect the presence of adult heartworms.

How can heartworm disease in dogs be prevented?

Pet owners can use Heartgard (ivermectin), the #1 veterinarian-recommended preventive on the market to help prevent heartworm disease. Heartgard kills tissue larval stages of heartworms and helps prevent them from developing into adults and causing heartworm disease. In an unprotected dog, heartworm larvae mature into adults and ultimately migrate to the arteries of the lungs.

How long do I have to give my dog Heartgard?

Monthly use of Heartgard is essential because it cannot be determined with certainty when the threat of mosquitoes has passed. Talk to your veterinarian for dose and regimen recommendations.

Can heartworm disease be treated?

Although it is possible to treat heartworm disease if a dog becomes infected, it is difficult, expensive and risky, particularly in dogs that have begun to exhibit clinical signs of infection.

What if my dog becomes infected with heartworms?

There are treatment options available to kill adult heartworms in dogs that have become infected. Treating dogs with heartworm disease starts with a thorough physical examination by the veterinarian. The veterinarian will then discuss treatment options with you. Typically, the dog is hospitalized during the treatment period. Because there is a risk of blood clots or worm debris blocking blood vessels from adult heartworm treatment, the dog must then remain quiet in close confinement for another 4 to 6 weeks after treatment. A second round of treatment may be required for some dogs. The veterinarian may also give your dog a treatment to rid it of the immature larvae that are circulating through the blood stream.

Can my dog "get" heartworm disease directly from an infected dog?

No, the way dogs become infected is via a bite from a mosquito that is carrying heartworm larvae.

Are nursing puppies immune to heartworm disease if the mother is receiving Heartgard?

No. Puppies that are nursing may become infected. Heartgard can be used in puppies as young as 6 weeks of age and puppies benefit from the ability of Heartgard to treat and control roundworms and hookworms.

What is the best number to call regarding any specific product questions?

For any specific product questions, please call Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health’s customer service line number at 1-888-637-4251.