NexGard: What Is It And What Is It Used For?

Let's dive into NexGard, guys! You might be wondering, "NexGard adalah apa?" or "What is NexGard?" Well, simply put, NexGard is a chewable tablet that protects your furry friend from fleas and ticks. It’s a popular choice among pet owners because it's super convenient and effective. But there's more to it than just that. Let's break it down further, shall we?

What Exactly is NexGard?

So, what exactly adalah NexGard? NexGard is an oral medication designed for dogs to prevent flea and tick infestations. The active ingredient in NexGard is afoxolaner, which works by interfering with the nervous system of fleas and ticks, ultimately leading to their demise. One of the biggest advantages of NexGard is that it's given orally. No more messy topical treatments that you have to carefully apply to your dog's skin! Just a tasty chewable tablet that most dogs happily gobble up.

How Does Afoxolaner Work?

Afoxolaner, the key ingredient, is part of the isoxazoline class of parasiticides. When a flea or tick ingests afoxolaner through your dog's blood, the substance blocks the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-gated chloride channels in the parasite's nerve and muscle cells. This disruption leads to uncontrolled neurological activity, causing paralysis and death of the flea or tick. Because mammals have a different structure of GABA receptors, afoxolaner is safe for dogs when used as directed.

Why Choose an Oral Treatment?

Choosing an oral treatment like NexGard offers several benefits over topical solutions. First off, there's no risk of the medication being washed off during bathing or swimming. This is a huge plus for dogs who love water! Secondly, you don't have to isolate your dog from children or other pets after application, as there's no residue left on their fur. Lastly, many dog owners find it much easier to give their dog a chewable tablet rather than struggling with messy topical applications.

The Convenience Factor

Let's be real – convenience is king! Popping a chewable tablet once a month is way easier than trying to apply a topical treatment while your dog squirms and tries to escape. Plus, you don't have to remember to avoid bathing your dog for a couple of days before and after application. NexGard fits seamlessly into your routine, making parasite prevention a breeze.

What Does NexGard Protect Against?

Okay, so we know NexGard adalah a flea and tick preventative, but let's get specific. NexGard is effective against several types of fleas and ticks, ensuring comprehensive protection for your canine companion. Knowing exactly which pests it targets can help you make an informed decision about whether NexGard is the right choice for your dog.

Fleas:

NexGard is highly effective in preventing flea infestations. It kills adult fleas before they can lay eggs, thus breaking the flea life cycle. This not only provides immediate relief for your dog but also prevents future infestations. If your dog is allergic to flea bites, using NexGard can significantly reduce itching and discomfort associated with flea allergy dermatitis.

Ticks:

NexGard protects against several common tick species, including:

• Black-legged tick (Deer tick): These ticks can transmit Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and other serious illnesses.
• American dog tick: These ticks can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia.
• Brown dog tick: These ticks can transmit ehrlichiosis and other diseases. They are also unique, because they can complete their entire life cycle indoors, meaning they can infest homes and kennels.
• Lone star tick: These ticks can transmit ehrlichiosis and STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness).

By protecting against these ticks, NexGard significantly reduces the risk of your dog contracting tick-borne diseases.

How Quickly Does It Work?

One of the great things about NexGard is how quickly it gets to work. It starts killing fleas within just a few hours of administration and can eliminate a tick infestation within 48 hours. This rapid action provides fast relief for your dog and helps prevent the transmission of diseases.

Year-Round Protection

For optimal protection, NexGard should be given year-round. Fleas and ticks can be a problem in many climates, even during the colder months. Consistent, monthly administration of NexGard ensures that your dog is always protected, no matter the season.

How to Administer NexGard

Alright, now that we've covered what NexGard adalah and what it protects against, let's talk about how to give it to your dog. Luckily, it's super simple! NexGard comes in the form of a chewable tablet that most dogs find palatable. However, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure successful administration:

1. Choose the Right Dosage: NexGard comes in different strengths based on your dog's weight. Make sure to select the correct dosage to ensure it's effective and safe. Consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure about the appropriate dosage for your dog.
2. Give the Chewable Tablet: You can give the chewable tablet to your dog directly. Most dogs will take it willingly because it's flavored. If your dog is a bit picky, you can try hiding it in a small piece of food, like a meatball or a piece of cheese. Just make sure your dog consumes the entire tablet to get the full benefit.
3. Administer with or Without Food: NexGard can be given with or without food. Some owners prefer to give it with a meal to ensure their dog swallows it, but it's not necessary. The medication is absorbed effectively either way.
4. Observe Your Dog: After giving the chewable tablet, keep an eye on your dog for a few minutes to make sure they don't spit it out. If they do, you may need to give them another dose to ensure they get the full protection.
5. Mark Your Calendar: NexGard should be given once a month. Set a reminder on your phone or mark your calendar to help you remember. Consistent administration is key to keeping your dog protected from fleas and ticks.

Tips for Picky Eaters

If your dog is a particularly picky eater, here are a few tricks you can try:

• Wrap it in Something Tasty: Wrap the chewable tablet in a piece of cheese, a small amount of peanut butter, or a pill pocket.
• Mix it with Wet Food: If your dog eats wet food, try mixing the tablet in with their meal.
• Praise and Reward: Give your dog lots of praise and a small treat after they take the tablet to create a positive association.

Are There Any Potential Side Effects?

Like all medications, NexGard can have potential side effects, although they are generally mild and uncommon. Being aware of these potential side effects can help you monitor your dog and seek veterinary care if necessary. While NexGard adalah generally considered safe, it’s important to be informed.

Common Side Effects:

• Vomiting: Some dogs may experience vomiting after taking NexGard. This is usually mild and resolves on its own.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is another possible side effect, although it is also typically mild and self-limiting.
• Lethargy: Some dogs may seem more tired or less energetic after taking NexGard.
• Decreased Appetite: A temporary decrease in appetite can occur in some dogs.
• Skin Reactions: In rare cases, some dogs may develop skin reactions such as redness, itching, or hives.

Less Common, But More Serious Side Effects:

• Seizures: Although rare, seizures have been reported in some dogs taking NexGard, particularly in dogs with a history of seizures. If your dog has a history of seizures, discuss the risks and benefits of NexGard with your veterinarian.
• Ataxia: This refers to a loss of coordination, which can manifest as stumbling or difficulty walking.
• Muscle Tremors: Uncontrolled muscle tremors can occur in rare cases.

What to Do If You Notice Side Effects:

If you notice any concerning side effects after giving your dog NexGard, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can assess your dog's condition and provide appropriate treatment.

Who Should Avoid NexGard?

• Puppies: NexGard is safe for puppies that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 4 pounds.
• Dogs with a History of Seizures: As mentioned earlier, NexGard should be used with caution in dogs with a history of seizures. Discuss the risks and benefits with your vet.
• Breeding, Pregnant, or Lactating Dogs: The safety of NexGard in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs has not been fully established. Consult with your veterinarian before using NexGard in these animals.

NexGard vs. Other Flea and Tick Preventatives

When choosing a flea and tick preventative for your dog, you have several options to consider. NexGard is just one of many products available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's compare NexGard to some other popular choices to help you make an informed decision.

NexGard vs. Topical Treatments:

• Convenience: As we've discussed, NexGard is incredibly convenient because it's given orally. Topical treatments, on the other hand, require careful application to your dog's skin and can be messy.
• Water Resistance: NexGard is not affected by bathing or swimming, while topical treatments can be washed off, reducing their effectiveness.
• Contact: With topical treatments, there's a risk of the medication coming into contact with children or other pets. NexGard eliminates this risk.
• Efficacy: Both NexGard and topical treatments can be highly effective, but some studies suggest that NexGard may act faster in killing fleas and ticks.

NexGard vs. Other Oral Medications:

• Active Ingredient: Different oral medications contain different active ingredients. For example, some contain afoxolaner (like NexGard), while others contain fluralaner or sarolaner. Each ingredient has a slightly different mechanism of action and spectrum of activity.
• Duration of Action: Some oral medications provide protection for one month, like NexGard, while others provide protection for up to three months.
• Additional Protection: Some oral medications may offer additional protection against heartworm or other parasites. NexGard is solely focused on fleas and ticks.
• Cost: The cost of different oral medications can vary. It's important to compare prices and consider the overall value, including convenience and efficacy.

Consult Your Veterinarian

The best way to decide which flea and tick preventative is right for your dog is to consult with your veterinarian. They can assess your dog's individual needs, taking into account their breed, age, health status, and lifestyle. Your vet can also provide recommendations based on the prevalence of fleas and ticks in your area.

So, to wrap it up, NexGard adalah a fantastic option for protecting your dog from fleas and ticks, thanks to its convenience, effectiveness, and ease of use. Always remember to consult with your vet to ensure it's the right choice for your furry pal!