The problem with some medications is that they are NOT preventatives, they're just poisons that kill the heartworm microfilariae (in the later larval stages). Heartguard and Interceptor are two examples of drugs that kill the microfilariae - they're not actual "preventatives".
Because these two drugs have had many reports of very bad reactions in dogs, I don't use them on my dogs. (Besides, I'm not comfortable giving my dogs poison every month to kill something that's not there).
Actually, Sentinel and Interceptor are essentially the same - Milbemycin Oxime.
ETA- Sentinal just has the addition of Lufenuron (which is a insect growth regulator) to help control fleas
I use Interceptor for heartworm and Bio-Spot for fleas and ticks.
Connie Sutherland Moderator Reg: 07-13-2005
Posts: 31571
Loc: North-Central coast of California
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A couple of important points: It's no longer true that heartworm is geographically limited in the contiguous states; it's in every state.
There are three areas of the U.S. (high desert areas) where heartworm was introduced in the late 90s via the planting of new trees that were hospitable to the mosquito that transmits heartworm. It took three years (average) for the presence of heartworm to be noticed and publicized (isolated cases not having been reported, assumed to have been "imported").
Where I live, we have no months where it's reliably within the safe temperature range for the the whole period, unfortunately, so using it after a weather log indicated the necessity would be what I would have to do. Of course, there are many areas where there are reliably safe months.
Thanks for the info Mara - you're absolutely right!
I got the flea prevention info confused with the heartworm info when reading about sentinal, oops
Anyway, starting this summer I will no longer give the heartworm meds to my dogs.
I'll continue to do the yearly tests, but at least I now know of a local vet who supports this approach (thanks Lee!). It's good to know that the local risks for the disease are extremely low and that so many people have had success with this approach. Again, thankyou Lee!
Connie Sutherland Moderator Reg: 07-13-2005
Posts: 31571
Loc: North-Central coast of California
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One thing about flea and tick meds to remember is that by far the single most common cause for canine atopy is flea bites. A hypersensitive dog is affected in areas of the body not directly exposed.
Flea hypersensitivity beats out inhalant/environmental allergies (and WAY trumps food allergies).
I'm not saying to use it; I *am* saying to be aware of the pros and cons of using flea prevention.
I imagine that most people here know of the ineffectiveness and dangers of so-called flea collars, but I'll toss it in here. :>
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Re: Is Frontline really necessary? also heartworm ?
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