NexGard For Dogs: The Ultimate Flea & Tick Solution

Are you a dog owner constantly battling the nuisance of fleas and ticks? You're not alone! These pesky parasites can make your furry friend miserable, causing relentless itching, skin irritation, and even transmitting diseases. Luckily, there's a convenient and effective solution that many pet owners swear by: NexGard. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about NexGard for dogs, from its benefits and ingredients to proper usage and potential side effects. So, let's dive in and discover how NexGard can help you keep your canine companion happy, healthy, and parasite-free!

What is NexGard?

NexGard is a chewable tablet that protects dogs from fleas and ticks. It's a highly palatable beef-flavored chew, making it easy to administer to even the pickiest eaters. Unlike topical treatments that can be messy and require careful application, NexGard is given orally, ensuring that the entire dose is ingested and works systemically. This means that the medication is absorbed into your dog's bloodstream, providing comprehensive protection against fleas and ticks throughout their entire body.

The active ingredient in NexGard is afoxolaner, an insecticide and acaricide belonging to the isoxazoline class. Afoxolaner works by interfering with the nervous system of fleas and ticks, causing paralysis and ultimately leading to their death. It's important to note that afoxolaner is specifically designed to target the nervous systems of these parasites and has a much lower affinity for the nervous systems of mammals, making it safe for dogs when used as directed. The effects of NexGard are rapid, killing fleas before they can lay eggs and preventing tick infestations. This helps to break the flea life cycle and reduces the risk of flea-related diseases, such as flea allergy dermatitis. For ticks, NexGard is effective against a wide range of species, including black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone star ticks, all of which can transmit serious illnesses like Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis. With NexGard, you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog is protected from these dangerous parasites and the diseases they carry.

Benefits of Using NexGard for Your Dog

Choosing the right flea and tick preventative for your beloved dog can feel overwhelming with so many options available. But NexGard offers a compelling array of benefits that make it a standout choice for many pet owners. Let's explore some key advantages:

• Effective flea and tick control: This is the primary reason why most dog owners turn to NexGard. The active ingredient, afoxolaner, is highly effective at killing fleas and ticks, providing fast and reliable protection. Studies have shown that NexGard can eliminate fleas within 24 hours and kill ticks within 48 hours, preventing infestations and reducing the risk of disease transmission.
• Convenient administration: Say goodbye to messy topical treatments! NexGard comes in the form of a tasty, beef-flavored chew that most dogs readily accept. This eliminates the hassle of applying liquids or powders to your dog's skin, making the process much easier and more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. No more struggling or worrying about whether you've applied the treatment correctly.
• Monthly dosing: With NexGard, you only need to administer one chewable tablet once a month to provide continuous protection against fleas and ticks. This simple, once-a-month dosing schedule makes it easy to stay on top of your dog's parasite prevention, ensuring they're always protected. No more remembering to apply treatments every few weeks or worrying about gaps in coverage.
• Safe for most dogs: NexGard is generally considered safe for most dogs when used as directed. It's approved for use in puppies as young as 8 weeks old and weighing at least 4 pounds. However, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new medication for your dog, especially if they have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
• No bathing restrictions: Unlike some topical treatments that require you to avoid bathing your dog for a certain period after application, NexGard is not affected by bathing or swimming. This means you can maintain your dog's regular grooming routine without worrying about compromising the effectiveness of their flea and tick protection. Feel free to let them splash and play in the water!
• Protection against multiple tick species: NexGard offers broad-spectrum protection against a variety of tick species, including the American dog tick, black-legged tick (deer tick), brown dog tick, and lone star tick. This is important because different tick species can transmit different diseases, so comprehensive protection is crucial for your dog's health.

How to Administer NexGard to Your Dog

Giving your dog NexGard is a breeze, thanks to its palatable chewable form! Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your dog gets the proper dosage and enjoys the experience:

1. Choose the right size: NexGard is available in different sizes based on your dog's weight. Make sure you select the appropriate chew for your dog's weight range. Consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure about the correct dosage.
2. Offer the chew: Simply offer the NexGard chew to your dog. Most dogs readily accept it as a treat due to its beef flavor. You can give it to them directly from your hand or place it in their food bowl.
3. Monitor your dog: Observe your dog to make sure they consume the entire chew. If your dog is hesitant to eat it, you can try breaking it into smaller pieces or mixing it with a small amount of their favorite food.
4. Administer monthly: NexGard should be given once a month to provide continuous protection against fleas and ticks. Mark your calendar or set a reminder on your phone to help you stay on schedule.

Tips for Picky Eaters:

• Make it a game: Toss the chewable a short distance and encourage your dog to catch it. This can make the experience more fun and engaging.
• Hide it in a treat: Wrap the chewable in a small piece of cheese, peanut butter, or another favorite treat.
• Pill pocket: Use a commercially available pill pocket to conceal the chewable.

Potential Side Effects of NexGard

While NexGard is generally safe for most dogs, it's important to be aware of potential side effects. Like any medication, some dogs may experience adverse reactions. Common side effects of NexGard can include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Skin issues like itching, redness, or hair loss

In rare cases, more serious side effects have been reported, such as:

• Seizures
• Muscle tremors
• Ataxia (loss of coordination)

It's crucial to note that the occurrence of seizures has been a topic of concern among some pet owners and veterinarians. While the exact cause-and-effect relationship is still being investigated, it's important to be aware of this potential risk, especially if your dog has a history of seizures or neurological problems.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian:

If you notice any of the following signs after giving your dog NexGard, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Severe vomiting or diarrhea
• Seizures or tremors
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Hives or facial swelling
• Difficulty breathing

Precautions and Considerations

Before starting your dog on NexGard, it's essential to consider the following precautions and recommendations:

• Consult with your veterinarian: Always talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog any new medication, including NexGard. They can assess your dog's individual health status and determine if NexGard is the right choice for them.
• Inform your veterinarian about your dog's medical history: Be sure to inform your veterinarian about any existing health conditions your dog has, as well as any medications they are currently taking. This information will help your veterinarian make an informed decision about whether NexGard is safe for your dog.
• Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures: As mentioned earlier, there have been reports of seizures in some dogs taking NexGard. If your dog has a history of seizures or neurological problems, use NexGard with caution and under the close supervision of your veterinarian.
• Store NexGard properly: Keep NexGard in its original packaging and store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets.

NexGard vs. Other Flea and Tick Medications

With so many flea and tick preventatives on the market, it's natural to wonder how NexGard stacks up against the competition. Here's a brief comparison to help you make an informed decision:

• NexGard vs. Topical Treatments: NexGard offers the convenience of oral administration, eliminating the mess and hassle of topical treatments. It's also not affected by bathing or swimming, unlike some topical products.
• NexGard vs. Other Oral Medications: Compared to some other oral flea and tick medications, NexGard is known for its palatability and ease of administration. Many dogs readily accept it as a treat.
• NexGard vs. Collars: Flea and tick collars can be effective, but some dogs may find them uncomfortable or irritating. NexGard provides systemic protection without the need for a collar.

Ultimately, the best flea and tick preventative for your dog will depend on their individual needs and your preferences. Talk to your veterinarian to determine which option is right for you.

Conclusion

NexGard is a popular and effective option for protecting your dog from fleas and ticks. Its convenient chewable form, monthly dosing schedule, and broad-spectrum protection make it a favorite among many pet owners. However, it's important to be aware of potential side effects and to consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog on NexGard. By understanding the benefits, risks, and proper usage of NexGard, you can make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for your furry friend. Remember, a healthy and happy dog is a parasite-free dog! So, take the necessary steps to protect your canine companion from fleas and ticks, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing they're safe and comfortable.