The Right Heartworm Medication for Your Pet

Written by Christine Attridge-Hardy

There are so many different types of Heartworm medications available on the market that it is hard to decide on what one to choose for your dog.  Here at Clappison Animal Hospital we believe that your decision needs to suit your lifestyle.  We do not tell you to choose a certain type because it is easiest.  We educate you on all the different products out there and try to help you make the right decision for you and your pet.

All products and how to apply:

Advantage Multi: This is a topical product that is placed along the spine.  If you have a larger pet you may place the drops as well at the base of the tail.  We ask that you do not allow your pet to swim or bathe for at least 48 hours after application. This gives the product ample time to absorb into your pet’s skin.  Advantage Multi has a number of features.  It covers Fleas, Heartworm, Intestinal Parasites, and Sarcoptic Mange. We ask that you do not touch the area where the product was applied until dried.

Revolution: This is a topical product also that is placed along the spine of your pet. We ask that you do not allow your pet to swim or be bathed for at least 48 hours after application.   Revolution features prevention against Fleas, Heartworm, Sarcoptic Mange, Earmites and Ticks (but not the kind we typically see in Ontario). We ask that you do not touch the area where the product was applied until dried.

Heartgard: This product comes in the form of an edible chew. The flavour is beef. Heartgard is good for Heartworm protection and Intestinal Parasites.

Trifexis: This product comes in a pill shaped form that is chewable. It is pork flavoured for those pet’s with some food allergies.   This product should be given with a meal.  Trifexis prevents against Fleas, Heartworm and Intestinal Parasites.

Sentinel: Sentinel also comes in a tablet form.  This product is to be given with a meal to absorb into your pet’s body correctly.  Sentinel’s features are: Heartworm, Flea Control and Intestinal Parasites. As noted it is flea control, for your dog may still get fleas but the adult flea will lay sterile eggs.

We hope this breakdown of the different types of heartworm medications helps you when choosing the right kind of prevention for your pet.