NexGard For Dogs: The Ultimate Flea & Tick Solution

Are you a dog owner constantly battling the relentless menace of fleas and ticks? Well, you're definitely not alone! These pesky parasites can cause your furry friend a world of discomfort, leading to constant scratching, skin irritations, and even serious health problems. Thankfully, there's a powerful and convenient solution available: NexGard.

What is NexGard?

NexGard is a chewable tablet that provides comprehensive protection against fleas and ticks for dogs. It's a highly effective medication that's administered orally, making it a palatable alternative to messy topical treatments. The active ingredient in NexGard is afoxolaner, which works by interfering with the nervous system of fleas and ticks, ultimately leading to their demise.

Why Choose NexGard for Your Dog?

• Effective Flea and Tick Control: NexGard is highly effective at killing both fleas and ticks. It starts working quickly, killing fleas within hours and ticks within 48 hours. It eliminates existing infestations and prevents new ones from taking hold.
• Convenient and Palatable: Let's face it, applying topical flea and tick treatments can be a real hassle. NexGard eliminates the mess and fuss with its tasty, chewable tablet. Most dogs readily accept it as a treat, making administration a breeze for pet owners.
• Month-Long Protection: A single NexGard chew provides a full month of protection against fleas and ticks, giving you peace of mind knowing your dog is safeguarded from these parasites.
• Safe for Most Dogs: NexGard is generally safe for most dogs when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. However, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure it's the right choice for your individual dog, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.
• Prevents Lyme Disease: Ticks can transmit serious diseases to dogs, including Lyme disease. By killing ticks, NexGard helps to protect your dog from this debilitating illness.

How Does NexGard Work?

NexGard contains afoxolaner, an active ingredient that belongs to the isoxazoline class of parasiticides. Once ingested, afoxolaner is absorbed into your dog's bloodstream. When fleas and ticks bite a treated dog, they ingest the afoxolaner, which disrupts their nervous system. This disruption leads to paralysis and death of the parasites.

NexGard specifically targets the nervous system of fleas and ticks, without affecting the dog's nervous system. This makes it a safe and effective treatment option for most dogs.

How to Administer NexGard

Administering NexGard is super easy! Simply give your dog the appropriate chewable tablet once a month. The dosage is based on your dog's weight, so be sure to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully. You can give NexGard with or without food, whichever your dog prefers. Most dogs will readily take the chewable tablet as a treat. If your dog is a picky eater, you can try hiding it in a pill pocket or a small piece of cheese.

It's important to administer NexGard on time each month to ensure continuous protection against fleas and ticks. If you happen to miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember and resume your regular monthly schedule.

Potential Side Effects of NexGard

While NexGard is generally safe for most dogs, it's important to be aware of potential side effects. The most common side effects reported include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and decreased appetite. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving on their own within a day or two.

In rare cases, some dogs may experience more serious side effects, such as seizures. If your dog has a history of seizures or neurological problems, it's crucial to discuss the risks and benefits of NexGard with your veterinarian before starting treatment. It is worth noting that the FDA has issued warnings about the potential for neurologic adverse reactions in dogs treated with isoxazoline class drugs, including afoxolaner. If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms in your dog after administering NexGard, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions to Take When Using NexGard

Before using NexGard, it's essential to inform your veterinarian about any existing health conditions your dog may have, as well as any medications they are currently taking. This will help your veterinarian determine if NexGard is the right choice for your dog and minimize the risk of potential drug interactions.

NexGard is approved for use in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age or older, weighing 4 pounds or greater. It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully, based on your dog's weight. Do not give NexGard to cats, as it is specifically formulated for dogs.

NexGard vs. Other Flea and Tick Treatments

NexGard is just one of many flea and tick treatments available for dogs. Other popular options include topical treatments, flea and tick collars, and other oral medications. Each type of treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here's a quick comparison:

• Topical Treatments: Topical treatments are applied directly to the dog's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. They can be effective, but they can also be messy and may leave a residue on your dog's fur. Some dogs may also be sensitive to the ingredients in topical treatments.
• Flea and Tick Collars: Flea and tick collars provide continuous protection for several months. However, they may not be as effective as other treatments, and some dogs may experience skin irritation from wearing a collar.
• Other Oral Medications: There are other oral flea and tick medications available, such as Bravecto and Simparica. These medications work similarly to NexGard, but they may have different active ingredients and duration of action.

The best flea and tick treatment for your dog will depend on their individual needs and lifestyle. Talk to your veterinarian to determine which option is right for your furry friend.

Where to Buy NexGard

NexGard is available at most veterinary clinics and pet supply stores. You can also purchase it online from reputable retailers. However, it's important to buy NexGard from a trusted source to ensure you're getting a genuine product. Counterfeit flea and tick medications are a growing problem, and they may not be effective or safe for your dog.

Before purchasing NexGard online, check the retailer's credentials and read customer reviews. Look for websites that are accredited by the Veterinary-Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS). This accreditation ensures that the website is legitimate and dispenses medications safely.

Cost of NexGard

The cost of NexGard varies depending on the size of your dog and the quantity you purchase. Generally, a single NexGard chewable tablet costs between $20 and $30. You can often save money by purchasing a 6-month or 12-month supply.

While NexGard may seem expensive, it's important to consider the cost of treating flea and tick infestations. Fleas and ticks can cause a variety of health problems, including skin infections, anemia, and Lyme disease. Treating these conditions can be costly and time-consuming. Investing in preventative flea and tick control, such as NexGard, can save you money in the long run.

Conclusion: Is NexGard Right for Your Dog?

NexGard is a highly effective and convenient flea and tick treatment option for dogs. It's easy to administer, provides month-long protection, and is generally safe for most dogs. However, it's important to talk to your veterinarian before starting NexGard, especially if your dog has any underlying health conditions.

By protecting your dog from fleas and ticks, you're not only keeping them comfortable, but you're also safeguarding them from potentially serious health problems. NexGard can help you give your furry friend the happy, healthy life they deserve.