Heartgard Plus for Dogs - Heartworm Treatment

Heartgard Plus: Your Pet's Ticket to a Heartworm-Free Life

Heartgard Plus is a veterinarian-recommended monthly heartworm prevention chewable designed to protect dogs against deadly heartworm disease. Formulated with ivermectin and pyrantel, Heartgard Plus not only prevents heartworm infection but also treats and controls roundworms and hookworms, two common intestinal parasites.

Heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquito bites and can lead to severe lung damage, heart failure, and long-term organ complications if left untreated. Because heartworms are difficult and costly to treat once established, consistent monthly prevention is critical for dogs across the United States.

Heartgard Plus chewables are beef-flavored and easy to administer, making them a convenient option for puppies and adult dogs. Available in multiple weight-based dosage sizes, Heartgard ensures accurate protection tailored to your dog’s needs.

Maintaining year-round heartworm prevention is one of the most important steps in protecting your dog’s long-term health.

What Is Heartworm Disease in Dogs?

Heartworm disease is caused by the parasite Dirofilaria immitis, transmitted through mosquito bites. Once inside the bloodstream, immature worms migrate to the heart and lungs where they mature and reproduce.

Without prevention, heartworms can cause:

• Chronic coughing
• Exercise intolerance
• Weight loss
• Heart enlargement
• Lung damage
• Potentially fatal complications

Because mosquitoes are present in most U.S. regions year-round or seasonally, heartworm prevention is strongly recommended nationwide.

How Heartgard Plus Works

Heartgard Plus contains two active ingredients:

Ivermectin

Prevents heartworm disease by eliminating immature heartworm larvae before they develop into adult worms.

Pyrantel

Treats and controls intestinal parasites including roundworms and hookworms.

This dual-action formula provides both heartworm prevention and intestinal worm control in one monthly dose.

Heartgard Plus Dosage by Dog Weight

Heartgard Plus is available in weight-specific chewable strengths, ensuring proper dosing for:

• Puppies and small dogs
• Medium-sized dogs
• Large and extra-large breeds

Accurate weight-based dosing is essential for effective protection.

Why Monthly Heartworm Prevention Is Essential

• Mosquito exposure is unpredictable
• Heartworm treatment is expensive and risky
• Prevention is significantly safer than treatment
• Many veterinarians recommend year-round administration

Missing doses may increase infection risk, so consistency is key.

Heartgard Plus Frequently Asked Questions

Do dogs need heartworm prevention year-round?

In most U.S. regions, yes. Mosquito exposure can occur beyond traditional summer months.

Does Heartgard treat existing heartworms?

No. It prevents heartworm disease but does not eliminate adult heartworms.

Is Heartgard safe for puppies?

Heartgard is approved for puppies above a minimum age and weight per label guidelines.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your veterinarian. Testing may be recommended before restarting prevention.