NexGard: What It Is & Why Your Dog Needs It

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! Ever heard of NexGard and wondered what all the buzz is about? Well, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into everything you need to know about NexGard, why it's a game-changer for your furry friend, and how it can keep those pesky parasites at bay.

What Exactly Is NexGard?

So, what is NexGard, anyway? Simply put, NexGard is a chewable tablet that protects your dog from fleas and ticks. Unlike those messy topical treatments, NexGard is given orally, making it a convenient and effective option for pet owners. The active ingredient in NexGard is afoxolaner, which works by interfering with the nervous system of fleas and ticks, ultimately leading to their demise. It's like a superhero for your dog, fighting off the bad guys (aka parasites) and keeping them safe and comfortable.

The science behind afoxolaner is pretty cool. Once ingested, afoxolaner is absorbed into your dog's bloodstream. When fleas and ticks bite your dog, they ingest the afoxolaner, which then disrupts their central nervous system. This disruption causes hyperexcitation, leading to paralysis and death of the parasites. Because mammals have a different nervous system, afoxolaner is safe for dogs when used as directed. Pretty neat, huh?

One of the best things about NexGard is how easy it is to administer. No more struggling with messy liquids or worrying about them rubbing off on your furniture! Just give your dog a tasty chew, and you're good to go for a whole month. Plus, because it's a chewable tablet, you can be sure your dog is getting the full dose, unlike topical treatments that can sometimes be unevenly applied or washed off. For dogs with allergies or sensitive skin, NexGard can be a godsend, eliminating the skin irritation that can sometimes occur with topical products. And let’s be real, anything that makes parasite prevention easier is a win in my book!

Why Should You Choose NexGard for Your Dog?

Okay, so now that we know what NexGard is, let's talk about why you should consider it for your canine companion. Flea and tick prevention is super important for several reasons. First and foremost, these parasites can cause a whole host of problems for your dog, from mild skin irritation to serious diseases. Fleas can lead to allergic dermatitis, causing intense itching and discomfort. Ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can have long-term health consequences for your furry friend.

Think about it: Your dog's comfort and health are on the line. No one wants to see their beloved pet suffering from itchy skin or dealing with the effects of a tick-borne illness. By using NexGard, you're not only protecting your dog from these immediate discomforts, but you're also safeguarding their long-term well-being.

Beyond the health benefits, NexGard offers a level of convenience that's hard to beat. As we mentioned earlier, the chewable tablet is easy to administer, and you don't have to worry about it washing off when your dog goes for a swim or gets caught in the rain. Plus, it's effective for a full month, so you can set it and forget it. Compare that to some topical treatments that need to be applied more frequently or require you to keep your dog away from water for a certain period of time. NexGard just makes life easier, plain and simple. Let’s look at some more specific advantages:

• Broad-spectrum protection: NexGard is effective against both fleas and multiple types of ticks, giving your dog comprehensive coverage.
• Fast-acting: NexGard starts killing fleas within hours of administration, providing rapid relief for your itchy pup.
• Safe and effective: NexGard has been extensively tested and is proven to be safe for most dogs when used as directed. However, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new medication.

Potential Side Effects: What to Watch Out For

Like any medication, NexGard can have potential side effects. While most dogs tolerate NexGard well, it's important to be aware of the possible risks. Some common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and decreased appetite. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own, but if they persist or worsen, it's important to contact your veterinarian.

In rare cases, NexGard has been associated with neurological signs, such as seizures or ataxia (loss of coordination). If your dog has a history of seizures or neurological problems, it's especially important to discuss the risks and benefits of NexGard with your veterinarian. While the risk of these serious side effects is low, it's always better to be informed and make the best decision for your dog's individual needs.

To minimize the risk of side effects, always follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully. Make sure you're giving the correct dosage based on your dog's weight, and don't give NexGard more frequently than recommended. If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms after giving NexGard, contact your veterinarian right away. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to the medication and recommend the appropriate course of action. Your vet is your best resource for personalized advice and guidance.

How to Administer NexGard Correctly

Okay, let's talk about how to give NexGard to your dog the right way. As we've mentioned, NexGard comes in a chewable tablet form, which makes it pretty easy to administer. Most dogs readily accept the chew as a treat, but if your dog is a bit picky, you can try a few tricks to make it more appealing. You can break the tablet into smaller pieces and mix it with their food, or you can wrap it in a small piece of cheese or peanut butter. Get creative and find what works best for your furry friend!

It's important to give NexGard with food to ensure proper absorption. The presence of food in the stomach helps the medication to be absorbed more effectively, maximizing its protection against fleas and ticks. So, make sure your dog has a full meal before giving them their NexGard chew.

Another important thing to keep in mind is the dosage. NexGard is available in different strengths based on your dog's weight. It's crucial to choose the correct dosage to ensure that your dog is getting the right amount of medication. Your veterinarian can help you determine the appropriate dosage based on your dog's weight and health condition. Never give more than the recommended dose, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

NexGard vs. Other Flea and Tick Preventatives

With so many flea and tick preventatives on the market, it can be tough to know which one is the best choice for your dog. Let's compare NexGard to some other popular options to help you make an informed decision. One common alternative is topical treatments, which are applied directly to your dog's skin. While topical treatments can be effective, they can also be messy and inconvenient. Some dogs don't like the feeling of the liquid on their skin, and it can take a while to dry. Plus, you have to be careful not to touch the treated area until it's completely dry, and you need to prevent your dog from licking it off.

Another option is flea and tick collars. These collars release medication over time, providing continuous protection. However, some collars can be irritating to the skin, and they may not be as effective as other methods, especially in areas with high tick populations. Additionally, there's a risk of the collar getting caught on something and causing injury to your dog.

Compared to these alternatives, NexGard offers several advantages. It's easy to administer, it's effective for a full month, and it's not affected by bathing or swimming. Plus, because it's given orally, there's no risk of it rubbing off on your furniture or being licked off by your dog. Of course, every dog is different, and what works well for one may not work as well for another. It's always a good idea to discuss the pros and cons of different flea and tick preventatives with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your individual dog.

Real Talk: Is NexGard Worth It?

So, is NexGard worth the hype? In my opinion, absolutely! The convenience, effectiveness, and broad-spectrum protection make it a top contender in the world of flea and tick prevention. While it's not the cheapest option on the market, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog is protected from these nasty parasites is priceless.

Think about the cost of treating flea infestations or tick-borne diseases. These costs can quickly add up, not to mention the stress and discomfort they cause for your dog. By investing in a preventative like NexGard, you're not only protecting your dog's health, but you're also saving yourself potential headaches and expenses down the road.

Of course, NexGard is not a magic bullet, and it's important to use it in conjunction with other preventative measures. Regular grooming, checking your dog for ticks after walks, and maintaining a clean environment can all help to reduce the risk of parasite infestations. But as a cornerstone of your flea and tick prevention strategy, NexGard is a solid choice. Talk to your vet and see if NexGard is right for your furry best friend.