The Importance of Using Preventatives Year Round

(Photo By Andrew Branch)

A Note From Dr. Chris:

In this part of the country, where our winter is relatively mild, it is always a challenge to get our clients to use the flea and heartworm preventative throughout the winter months.  The misconception is that the marginally cool temperatures will deter fleas and intestinal worms from being an issue.  Even with the advent of easily applied and administered parasiticides, more than 40% of our clients discontinue usage of flea and heartworm preventative during the winter months.  We always try to remind our clients of the importance of keeping their pets on flea and heartworm preventatives year round. 

Heartworm preventatives such as Heartgard Plus, Interceptor, Iverhart Plus, and Iverhart Max are supposed to be given once a month for all twelve months.  Flea preventatives, such as Advantage Multi, Revolution, and Frontline, are also designed to be utilized once monthly for the entire year.  When given together, heartworm and flea preventatives keep your pet safe from fleas, intestinal worms, and some of the other nasty parasites that often find their way to your pet.  

I know that it is tempting to stop using preventatives in the winter months, but believe me- your pet will thank you.  If you ever need information about heartworm and/or flea preventatives, please visit our website or give us a call.  We are more than happy to share our insight and experiences with you!

Our information is not intended to replace the advice of your veterinarian.  Do not use this information for diagnostic purposes. Always take your pet to your veterinarian to obtain a diagnosis and course of treatment.