Dogs are beloved companions, and ensuring their health and safety is a priority for many pet owners. Nexgard is a popular flea and tick medication that provides fast-acting protection against these parasites. But how long does Nexgard last for dogs? This article explores the answer to this question.
What is Nexgard?
Nexgard is a flea and tick medication that is administered orally to dogs. It is designed to kill adult fleas and prevent flea eggs from hatching. It also kills ticks, including those that carry Lyme disease. Nexgard contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which is a type of insecticide. It is available in beef-flavored chewable tablets that are easy to give to your pet.
How Long Does Nexgard Last?
Nexgard is designed to provide protection against fleas and ticks for up to one month. This means that you should give your dog a dose of Nexgard once per month to ensure continuous protection. You should follow the dosing instructions on the package, as the amount of medication needed may vary depending on your pet's size and weight.
It is important to note that Nexgard may not be as effective in areas with high levels of infestation. In these cases, your vet may recommend additional treatments or products to ensure that your pet remains protected.
How Long Does Nexgard Take to Work?
Nexgard begins working quickly after it is administered. It starts killing adult fleas within 8 hours and will continue to protect your pet from fleas and ticks for up to one month. However, it is important to note that Nexgard does not repel ticks, so you should still check your pet for ticks regularly.
How to Administer Nexgard
Nexgard is easy to administer to your pet. Simply give your dog one chewable tablet per month, according to the instructions on the package. It is important to note that Nexgard should not be given to puppies younger than 8 weeks old or dogs weighing less than 2 lbs. If your dog is pregnant, nursing, or taking any other medications, be sure to talk to your vet before giving Nexgard.
Side Effects of Nexgard
Nexgard is generally safe for most dogs, but there are some potential side effects. These may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. If your dog experiences any of these side effects after taking Nexgard, contact your vet immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Nexgard effective against fleas and ticks?
A: Yes, Nexgard is effective against fleas and ticks. It starts killing adult fleas within 8 hours and provides protection against fleas and ticks for up to one month.
Q: How often should I give my dog Nexgard?
A: Nexgard should be given to your dog once per month to ensure continuous protection against fleas and ticks.
Q: Is Nexgard safe for puppies?
A: Nexgard should not be given to puppies younger than 8 weeks old or dogs weighing less than 2 lbs. If your dog is pregnant, nursing, or taking any other medications, be sure to talk to your vet before giving Nexgard.
Q: Are there any side effects of Nexgard?
A: Yes, there are some potential side effects of Nexgard, such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. If your dog experiences any of these side effects after taking Nexgard, contact your vet immediately.
Q: How long does it take for Nexgard to start working?
A: Nexgard begins working quickly after it is administered. It starts killing adult fleas within 8 hours.
Q: Does Nexgard repel ticks?
A:No, Nexgard does not repel ticks. You should still check your pet for ticks regularly.
Q: Is Nexgard safe for pregnant or nursing dogs?
A:If your dog is pregnant, nursing, or taking any other medications, be sure to talk to your vet before giving Nexgard.
Q: Does Nexgard kill flea eggs?
A:Yes, Nexgard kills flea eggs and prevents them from hatching.
Q: Can I give my dog more than one dose of Nexgard?
A:No, you should only give your dog one dose of Nexgard per month. Giving your dog more than one dose can lead to toxicity.
Conclusion
Nexgard is a popular flea and tick medication that is easy to administer and provides fast-acting protection against these parasites. It starts killing adult fleas within 8 hours and provides protection against fleas and ticks for up to one month. However, it is important to note that Nexgard may not be as effective in areas with high levels of infestation. If your dog is pregnant, nursing, or taking any other medications, be sure to talk to your vet before giving Nexgard. With careful use and proper dosing, Nexgard can help keep your pet safe from fleas and ticks.