NexGard is a popular and effective oral medication used to protect dogs from fleas and ticks. It contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which is a systemic insecticide and acaricide. This means it works by being absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream, killing fleas and ticks when they bite. Ensuring your dog receives the maximum benefit from NexGard involves understanding its proper usage, potential side effects, and important preventative measures. This comprehensive guide provides valuable tips for effectively using NexGard and maintaining your dog’s well-being.
Understanding NexGard and How It Works
NexGard is a flavored chewable tablet, making it palatable and easy to administer to most dogs. It works by disrupting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, leading to their paralysis and death. Afoxolaner targets specific receptors in invertebrates that are not present in mammals, making it safe for dogs when used as directed.
The medication starts working quickly, typically killing fleas within a few hours of administration. Its effectiveness lasts for a full 30 days, providing continuous protection against flea and tick infestations. This monthly dosing schedule is crucial for maintaining consistent protection.
Key Benefits of NexGard
NexGard offers several advantages compared to other flea and tick treatments.
- It’s an oral medication, eliminating the mess and potential skin irritation associated with topical treatments.
- Its monthly administration makes it convenient and easy to remember.
- It’s effective against multiple species of fleas and ticks, providing broad-spectrum protection.
- It’s safe for most dogs, including puppies as young as 8 weeks old and weighing at least 4 pounds.
Proper Administration of NexGard: Ensuring Effectiveness
The correct administration of NexGard is essential for its effectiveness. Following these guidelines will help ensure your dog receives the full benefits of the medication.
Dosage Guidelines: Finding the Right Chewable for Your Dog
NexGard comes in different strengths, formulated to suit dogs of varying weights. It’s essential to choose the correct dosage based on your dog’s weight. Consult the product label or your veterinarian to determine the appropriate chewable for your dog. Never split tablets unless specifically instructed by your vet, as this could lead to inaccurate dosing.
The different dosage ranges for NexGard are usually categorized by weight as follows:
- 2-4 kg (4.4-8.8 lbs)
- 4-10 kg (8.8-22 lbs)
- 10-25 kg (22-55 lbs)
- 25-50 kg (55-110 lbs)
- Over 50 kg (Over 110 lbs): Use an appropriate combination of chewables.
Tips for Giving NexGard to Your Dog: Making it a Positive Experience
Most dogs readily accept NexGard due to its palatable flavor. However, some dogs may be more hesitant. Here are some tips to make administration easier:
- Offer the chewable as a treat. Many dogs will eat it right out of your hand.
- If your dog is hesitant, try mixing it with a small amount of their favorite food.
- Avoid hiding the chewable in a large amount of food, as your dog may not eat the entire portion, leading to an incomplete dose.
- If your dog still refuses to eat the chewable, you can try gently opening their mouth and placing it at the back of their tongue. Hold their mouth closed briefly to encourage swallowing.
Timing Matters: When to Give NexGard for Optimal Results
NexGard should be administered once a month, ideally on the same day each month. This helps maintain consistent protection against fleas and ticks. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to ensure you don’t miss a dose. Giving NexGard with or without food doesn’t typically affect its efficacy. However, giving it with a meal might be beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs to minimize the chance of digestive upset.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While NexGard is generally considered safe, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions.
Common Side Effects of NexGard
Most dogs tolerate NexGard well, but some may experience mild side effects. The most common side effects include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy or decreased activity
- Loss of appetite
- Skin issues like itching or rash
These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own within a day or two. However, if your dog experiences severe or persistent side effects, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Rare but Serious Side Effects: What to Watch Out For
In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur. These include:
- Seizures: There have been reports of seizures in dogs receiving NexGard, particularly in those with a history of seizures or neurological disorders.
- Ataxia (loss of coordination)
- Muscle tremors
If your dog experiences any of these serious side effects, discontinue use of NexGard and seek veterinary attention immediately.
Precautions and Contraindications: Ensuring Your Dog’s Safety
NexGard is not suitable for all dogs. Consider the following precautions:
- Puppies: NexGard is safe for puppies 8 weeks of age or older and weighing at least 4 pounds.
- Breeding, Pregnant, or Lactating Dogs: Consult your veterinarian before using NexGard in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs, as its safety in these animals has not been fully established.
- Dogs with a History of Seizures: Use NexGard with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurological disorders, as it may increase the risk of seizures. Discuss the risks and benefits with your veterinarian.
- Drug Interactions: Inform your veterinarian about any other medications your dog is taking, as there is a potential for drug interactions.
Maximizing NexGard’s Effectiveness: Combining with Other Preventative Measures
While NexGard is highly effective, combining it with other preventative measures can provide even greater protection against fleas and ticks.
Environmental Control: Reducing Flea and Tick Populations in Your Home and Yard
Controlling flea and tick populations in your home and yard is crucial for preventing infestations. Here are some effective strategies:
- Regularly vacuum your home, paying close attention to carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
- Wash your dog’s bedding frequently in hot water.
- Mow your lawn regularly and trim bushes and trees to reduce tick habitats.
- Consider using a yard spray specifically designed to kill fleas and ticks.
- Seal cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation to prevent pests from entering.
Regular Grooming and Tick Checks: Early Detection is Key
Regular grooming can help you detect fleas and ticks early, before they become a major problem. Brush your dog frequently and check for any signs of fleas or ticks. Pay close attention to areas such as the ears, neck, groin, and between the toes. Remove any ticks promptly using a tick removal tool.
Year-Round Protection: Why Consistency is Important
Fleas and ticks can be a problem year-round, depending on your location and climate. Even in colder climates, fleas and ticks can survive indoors or in protected areas. Therefore, it’s important to provide year-round protection with NexGard to prevent infestations and protect your dog from flea and tick-borne diseases. Stopping treatment during the colder months could leave your dog vulnerable to these parasites.
Dealing with Flea and Tick Infestations: What to Do if Your Dog Already Has Fleas or Ticks
If your dog already has a flea or tick infestation, NexGard can help kill the existing parasites. However, you may need to take additional steps to eliminate the infestation completely.
Using NexGard to Eliminate Existing Fleas and Ticks
NexGard starts working quickly to kill fleas and ticks. You should see a noticeable reduction in fleas and ticks within a few days of administering the first dose. Continue administering NexGard monthly to prevent re-infestation.
Additional Treatments: Addressing the Infestation in Your Home
In addition to treating your dog with NexGard, you’ll need to treat your home to eliminate fleas and ticks. This may involve using flea and tick sprays or foggers designed for indoor use. Follow the product instructions carefully and ensure that your dog and family members are kept away from treated areas until they are dry.
Consulting Your Veterinarian: Seeking Professional Advice
If you’re struggling to control a flea or tick infestation, consult your veterinarian. They can recommend additional treatments and strategies to help you eliminate the infestation completely. They can also rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the problem.
Storing NexGard Properly: Maintaining Efficacy
Proper storage of NexGard is crucial to maintain its efficacy and ensure it remains effective until its expiration date.
Optimal Storage Conditions for NexGard Chewables
Store NexGard chewables in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. The ideal storage temperature is between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). Keep the chewables in their original packaging to protect them from moisture and light.
Checking Expiration Dates: Ensuring Medication is Still Effective
Always check the expiration date on the NexGard packaging before administering a chewable to your dog. Expired medication may not be as effective and could potentially be harmful. If the medication has expired, dispose of it properly and obtain a new supply.
Cost-Effectiveness of NexGard: Comparing to Other Treatments
NexGard can be a cost-effective option for flea and tick prevention, especially when compared to other treatments that may require more frequent application or multiple products.
Comparing Prices and Benefits: Making an Informed Decision
Consider the cost of NexGard in relation to other flea and tick treatments, such as topical medications, collars, and sprays. Evaluate the benefits of each option, including ease of use, effectiveness, and potential side effects. While NexGard may have a higher upfront cost compared to some other treatments, its monthly administration and broad-spectrum protection can make it a more cost-effective option in the long run. Consider purchasing NexGard in bulk or subscribing to a monthly delivery service to save money.
Discussing Options with Your Veterinarian: Finding the Best Solution for Your Dog
Your veterinarian can help you determine the most cost-effective and appropriate flea and tick prevention strategy for your dog, taking into account their individual needs, lifestyle, and medical history. They can also advise you on any potential discounts or rebates that may be available.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Dog with NexGard
NexGard is a safe and effective oral medication that provides monthly protection against fleas and ticks. By following these tips, you can ensure your dog receives the maximum benefit from NexGard and remains protected from these harmful parasites. Remember to consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about using NexGard or any other flea and tick prevention product. Consistent use, coupled with environmental control and regular grooming, will contribute significantly to your dog’s health and well-being. Prioritizing your dog’s health by investing in consistent flea and tick prevention is crucial. Early intervention and proactive strategies are key to avoiding costly veterinary treatments and ensuring your dog enjoys a happy, healthy, and parasite-free life.
What is NexGard and how does it work to protect my dog?
NexGard is a chewable tablet that protects dogs from fleas and ticks. It contains afoxolaner, an insecticide and acaricide that works by interfering with the nervous system of fleas and ticks. When a flea or tick bites a dog that has taken NexGard, the afoxolaner quickly paralyzes and kills the parasite.
Afoxolaner targets the nerve cells of fleas and ticks but has a minimal impact on mammals like dogs because of differences in the nerve cell structure. This targeted action ensures that NexGard is effective at eliminating these parasites while remaining relatively safe for the treated animal. The medication is administered orally, making it easy to give to your dog, and provides month-long protection.
How often should I give my dog NexGard?
NexGard is designed to be administered once a month for continuous protection against fleas and ticks. Each chewable tablet provides a full 30 days of protection, ensuring your dog remains safeguarded between doses. Consistency is key to maximizing the efficacy of NexGard.
Following the monthly dosing schedule is important because the concentration of afoxolaner in your dog’s bloodstream gradually decreases over time. If you wait longer than a month between doses, your dog may become susceptible to flea and tick infestations. Establishing a reminder system can help you maintain this schedule.
Is NexGard safe for all dogs? Are there any side effects?
NexGard is generally considered safe for most dogs when administered according to the product label. However, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on NexGard, especially if your dog has a history of seizures or other neurological conditions. Some dogs may experience mild side effects.
The most commonly reported side effects of NexGard are vomiting, dry/flaky skin, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. In rare cases, neurological signs such as tremors, incoordination, and seizures have been reported. If you observe any concerning signs after administering NexGard, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can NexGard be used in puppies? What is the minimum age and weight requirement?
NexGard is approved for use in puppies that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 4 pounds. It’s crucial to adhere to these minimum requirements to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication. Using NexGard on puppies younger or lighter than specified could potentially lead to adverse reactions.
The dosage of NexGard is determined by the dog’s weight. Therefore, it’s important to accurately weigh your puppy and select the appropriate dosage range as instructed by your veterinarian or on the product label. This ensures your puppy receives the correct amount of medication for effective protection.
How does NexGard compare to other flea and tick prevention methods, such as topical treatments?
NexGard offers several advantages over topical flea and tick treatments. Because it is administered orally, there is no risk of the medication being washed off during bathing or swimming, ensuring continuous protection. It also eliminates the potential for residue on your dog’s fur, which could be a concern for children or other pets who come into contact with your dog.
Topical treatments can be effective, but they require careful application and can sometimes cause skin irritation at the application site. NexGard’s chewable format is often easier to administer, particularly for dogs who resist topical treatments. Ultimately, the best method depends on your dog’s individual needs and preferences, as well as your veterinarian’s recommendations.
What should I do if I miss a dose of NexGard?
If you miss a dose of NexGard, administer the missed dose as soon as you remember. It’s important to get your dog back on schedule as quickly as possible to maintain continuous protection against fleas and ticks. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose.
After administering the missed dose, resume your regular monthly dosing schedule. If you are unsure about how to proceed or if your dog experiences any unusual symptoms, consult with your veterinarian for guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s specific needs.
Where can I purchase NexGard? Do I need a prescription?
NexGard is a prescription medication, meaning you will need a prescription from your veterinarian to purchase it. This is because your veterinarian can assess your dog’s health and determine if NexGard is the right choice for them, as well as provide guidance on proper dosage and administration.
You can purchase NexGard from your veterinarian’s office or through online pharmacies that require a valid prescription. Be sure to purchase NexGard from a reputable source to ensure you are receiving a genuine product. Avoid purchasing from unverified sources, as these may sell counterfeit or expired medications.