Heartgard vs. Heartgard Plus – What’s the Difference?
When it comes to heartworm prevention for your dog, two of the most popular options are Heartgard and Heartgard Plus. Both are highly effective in preventing heartworm disease, but they differ in terms of their composition and the scope of protection they offer. In this article, we will explore the differences between Heartgard vs Heartgard Plus, and help you determine which one is the best fit for your dog’s needs.
Understanding Heartgard and Heartgard Plus
Both Heartgard and Heartgard Plus are designed to prevent heartworm disease in dogs, but they have different formulations and offer varying levels of protection.
What Is Heartgard?
Heartgard is a well-known heartworm preventive medication that contains the active ingredient Ivermectin, which works by killing the larvae of heartworms before they can mature into adult worms in the dog’s body.
Active Ingredients in Heartgard
- Ivermectin is the primary active ingredient in Heartgard, and it is highly effective in killing the larvae of heartworms, preventing the development of adult worms in your pet.
How Heartgard Works to Prevent Heartworms
Heartgard prevents heartworm infection by targeting and killing the immature heartworm larvae (microfilariae) that are transmitted through mosquito bites, stopping them from maturing into adult worms.
What Is Heartgard Plus?
Heartgard Plus offers similar protection against heartworms as Heartgard, but with added protection against intestinal parasites.
Additional Protection Provided by Heartgard Plus
In addition to heartworm prevention, Heartgard Plus also provides protection against roundworms and hookworms, two common intestinal parasites that can affect dogs.
How It Works Against Heartworms and Intestinal Parasites
Heartgard Plus contains both Ivermectin (for heartworm prevention) and Pyrantel pamoate, which is effective against roundworms and hookworms, adding an extra layer of protection.
Heartgard vs. Heartgard Plus – Key Differences
While both Heartgard and Heartgard Plus prevent heartworm disease, Heartgard Plus offers broader parasite control by targeting additional intestinal worms. Below we compare the key differences.
Difference Between Heartgard and Heartgard Plus
- Heartgard: Only protects against heartworms.
- Heartgard Plus: Protects against heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms.
Ingredients in Heartgard vs. Heartgard Plus
- Heartgard contains Ivermectin as its active ingredient.
- Heartgard Plus contains both Ivermectin (for heartworm prevention) and Pyrantel pamoate (for roundworms and hookworms).
Parasites Targeted by Each Product
- Heartgard: Only targets heartworms.
- Heartgard Plus: Targets heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms.
Effectiveness of Heartgard vs. Heartgard Plus
Both products are highly effective in preventing heartworm disease, but Heartgard Plus provides additional protection against intestinal worms, making it a more comprehensive option.
Does Heartgard Plus Provide More Protection?
Yes, Heartgard Plus provides more protection because it targets additional parasites like roundworms and hookworms, in addition to heartworms.
When to Choose One Over the Other
- Choose Heartgard if your dog only needs heartworm prevention.
- Choose Heartgard Plus if you want the added benefit of intestinal parasite protection.
Which Is Better for Your Dog?
Your dog’s health needs will dictate whether Heartgard or Heartgard Plus is the better choice. Here’s when to use each product.
When to Use Regular Heartgard
- Heartgard is ideal for dogs that are only at risk for heartworm disease.
- If your dog is not exposed to a high risk of intestinal parasites, regular Heartgard may be enough.
Cases Where Only Heartworm Prevention Is Needed
If you live in an area where heartworm disease is prevalent but intestinal parasites are not as much of a concern, Heartgard is a good choice.
Dogs That Do Not Need Additional Deworming
If your dog’s deworming needs are minimal, using Heartgard alone may suffice.
When to Use Heartgard Plus
Heartgard Plus is best suited for dogs that require additional protection against intestinal parasites, especially those at risk for roundworms and hookworms.
Protection Against Roundworms and Hookworms
If your dog is prone to intestinal parasites, Heartgard Plus will offer comprehensive protection against both heartworms and common intestinal worms.
Ideal for Dogs Prone to Intestinal Parasites
Dogs that spend time outdoors, around other pets, or in environments with a higher risk of intestinal parasites may benefit more from Heartgard Plus.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Heartworm Preventative
When deciding between Heartgard and Heartgard Plus, consider your dog’s specific needs. While Heartgard is an excellent choice for heartworm prevention alone, Heartgard Plus provides broader protection for dogs that are susceptible to both heartworms and intestinal parasites.
Comparing the Benefits of Both Products
- Heartgard: Focuses on heartworm prevention.
- Heartgard Plus: Offers heartworm prevention and protection against roundworms and hookworms.
Consulting Your Veterinarian for the Best Option
Always consult your veterinarian to determine the best heartworm preventive for your dog, as they can assess the risk of heartworm and intestinal parasite exposure based on your dog’s lifestyle and environment.
Next Steps
For more information on choosing the right heartworm preventive, read our article on Heartworm Prevention for Dogs.
