Monthly parasite preventives are one of the most popular choices of pet parents to prevent pesky parasites from infesting their four-legged family members. The products are designed to protect dogs against harmful parasites, help ensure their comfort, and reduce the risk of several vector-borne diseases. But have you ever wondered how the formulas actually work once administered to your dog?  We’re happy to discuss it in this blog.

Let’s get started!

How Do Monthly Parasite Preventive Chews Work?

Let’s look at the steps.

Step 1: The Dog Swallows the Chew

  • Most chewable flea and tick preventives can be given with or without food, although some products are best administered with a meal. Always follow the product label.
  • Once swallowed, the chew is digested.
  • Its active ingredients are absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream.
  • The timing of the absorption depends on the product.

Step 2: The Active Ingredients of the Product Start Acting

  • Once the active ingredients of the treatments are absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream, they work by distributing their active ingredients directly throughout the pet’s bloodstream and tissues.
  • The ingredients are then circulated throughout the dog’s body.
  • While some parasites are affected once they feed on the dog’s blood, others are prevented from maturing into adults or reproducing by laying eggs.

Step 3: Parasites Bite the Dogs

  • Once a parasite bites the dog, it ingests the active ingredients of the treatment that are circulating in the pet’s bloodstream.
  • The chemicals overstimulate the target parasite’s nervous system, leading to its rapid paralysis and death.
  • Depending on the product, fleas are generally killed within a few days, while ticks may die within 12 to 48 hours. Intestinal worms, on the other hand, are targeted directly in the gut, causing them to detach and pass out from the dog’s body through its feces.

How to Effectively Administer a Parasite Prevention Chew to Dogs?

Here’s how you can effectively use Parasite protection chews on dogs.

1. Maintaining Monthly Schedule

Maintaining a monthly schedule while administering a parasite preventive chew ensures continuous and uninterrupted protection against parasites like fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms. Missing even a single dose can leave your dog exposed to parasite infestations.

2. Administering as Recommended

Administering parasite protection chews  according to recommendations is vital because incorrect administration or dosage can leave your dog susceptible to infestations and serious infections. Improper use can also cause overdoses, resulting in adverse side effects.

3. Observing Your Dog Post-Administration

It is critical to observe your dog after administering parasite preventive chews to prevent possible adverse reactions. While most of the vet-recommended parasitic preventive chews are generally well-tolerated by dogs, it is important to keep an eye on them to ensure they have not vomited or spat out the dose and to address side effects, if any.

4. Consulting Veterinarians in Case of Any Concern

Once you have administered a parasite preventive chew to your dog, you may consider getting your dog checked by the veterinarian to ensure the treatment’s efficacy. It also helps the vet check your dog’s tolerance and address any possible side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular monthly parasite preventives for dogs?

Some of the most popular monthly parasite preventives include Simparica Trio for Dogs, NexGard Spectra, and Heartgard Plus.

Are monthly parasite control chews safe for all dogs?

The chews are generally well-tolerated by dogs of most breeds and sizes as long as administered according to the directions on the product label.

What if I miss a dose of a monthly parasite preventive chew?

If you happen to miss a dose, administer the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s been significantly longer than recommended, seek your vet’s advice, as your dog may need testing (especially for heartworm prevention) or a revised dosing schedule.

Do I need a heartworm test before starting a heartworm preventive?

Adult dogs typically require a heartworm test before starting or resuming preventative formulas. Administering a preventative to a dog that already has an adult heartworm infection can trigger potentially fatal reactions.

Can I give the monthly parasite preventive chew with food?

Most monthly chews can be given with or without food. However, some products are better absorbed when given with a meal. The ideal approach should be to follow the product instructions prior to administration.

Can monthly parasite preventive chews replace dewormers?

While some monthly preventives are also designed to treat common intestinal worms, not all of them are formulated to do so.

Parting Words

Consistently administering monthly parasite preventive chews is one of the most effective ways to protect dogs against pests like fleas, ticks, intestinal worms and heartworms and ensure their long-term good health.

About Author: Jessie McDaniel is a seasoned writer at CanadaPetCare, who specializes in blog writing, ghostwriting, and freelancing. Her expertise in the pet industry has helped her publish many great articles and blogs regarding the same on numerous pet care sites. You can connect with Jesse on Twitter