Heartworm disease is a major concern for pet parents everywhere. With heartworm infections reported in all 50 states of the US, preventing heartworm is more important than ever. Despite the availability of preventive measures, the number of dogs infected with heartworm disease has increased, while the use of preventatives has declined. The leading cause? Simply forgetting to administer monthly preventatives, according to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
Thankfully, there is now a solution that offers long-lasting heartworm protection. Introducing ProHeart 12, a revolutionary injection that shields your dog from heartworm for a full year. This FDA-approved product is a game-changer, and here’s everything you need to know about it.
What Is ProHeart 12?
ProHeart 12 functions similarly to its predecessor, ProHeart 6, but with an extended duration of protection – a whole year! By releasing microspheres of the antiparasitic drug moxidectin over a 12-month period, ProHeart 12 guarantees continuous heartworm prevention. Additionally, it can also treat hookworms at the time of injection. As of now, ProHeart 12 is the only FDA-approved heartworm prevention product that offers year-long protection.
Is ProHeart 12 Safe?
Before gaining FDA approval, ProHeart 12 underwent rigorous safety evaluations in both laboratory and field studies involving client-owned dogs. While ProHeart 6 faced a voluntary recall in 2004 due to allergenic residual solvents used in manufacturing, the manufacturer addressed the issue and made necessary adjustments. Since then, extensive safety and efficacy studies have been conducted, resulting in rare and usually non-serious adverse reactions. Reported side effects of ProHeart 12 include vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, anorexia, and hypersensitivity reactions. Moreover, ProHeart injections have been safely used and registered in various countries, including Canada, the European Union, Korea, and Japan, with no recalls or safety concerns.
Which Dogs Are Eligible for ProHeart 12?
ProHeart 12 is suitable for healthy dogs that are one year or older. Since puppies grow rapidly and require different dosages of heartworm preventative each month based on their weight, many veterinarians recommend using oral or topical preventatives during their first year before considering the switch. ProHeart 12 is also safe for dogs that are sensitive to ivermectin, a common ingredient in oral heartworm preventatives. To determine if your dog is a good candidate for ProHeart 12, consult with your veterinarian.
Should I Use a New Product on My Dog? Does That Make My Dog a “Guinea Pig?”
It’s natural to be cautious about new veterinary pharmaceutical products until sufficient data is available. However, many veterinarians are comfortable recommending ProHeart 12 due to its extensive track record. Although it recently entered the US market, ProHeart 12 has been successfully marketed and used in Australia for the past 19 years. With 19 years of widespread usage and being prescribed more frequently than any other heartworm preventative in Australia, the second-largest canine heartworm market globally, ProHeart 12 certainly isn’t a new product. The real-world experience of countless satisfied pet parents in Australia speaks volumes about its effectiveness.
Protecting your dog from heartworm is crucial, and with ProHeart 12, you can ensure year-round security. Don’t wait until it’s too late – give your furry friend the protection they deserve. To learn more about ProHeart 12 and how it can safeguard your dog’s health, visit Katten TrimSalon. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.
Featured Image: iStock.com/gradyreese