Here at Abbey Animal Hospital, we’re all about keeping your pets safe with year-round protection against parasites, fleas, and ticks. We firmly believe that prevention is the gold standard in pet care. Catching issues before they become problems is always the best approach.
Your pets are part of the family. And just like any family member, you want to keep them healthy and protected. It’s better for their quality of life and better for your pocketbook. Treating preventable parasites like heartworms can run into the thousands of dollars and ultimately cost your beloved pet their life. That’s why choosing the right preventative is so crucial.
Let’s dive into four top choices: NexGard PLUS, NexGard, Heartgard, and Simparica. Each one offers unique benefits to keep your dog happy and safe.
NexGard PLUS: The All-in-One Defender and Abbey Animal Hospital’s Top Pick
NexGard PLUS isn’t just any flea and tick treatment. This superstar kills fleas and five types of ticks (yes, you read that right). But it doesn’t stop there—it also protects against other parasites like hookworm and roundworm species. Plus, it prevents heartworm and Lyme disease. It’s like the superhero of pet meds!
We like this preventative because it’s a one stop shop, if you will. Nexgard PLUS offers comprehensive coverage AND is more convenient than trying to remember to give your beloved Fido two pills each month. It’s also more cost effective than buying two different types of preventatives to get complete protection! In addition, it’s the only preventative that doctors use in the control of mange.
For a limited time you can get rebates for every 6 month supply you buy! Buy 6 months and get $35.00 back, buy a 12 month supply and get $70.00 back. This offer extends until January 1, 2025.
- Kills Fleas: Yes
- Kills Ticks: Yes (all five types)
- Protects Against Other Parasites: Hookworm, Roundworm
- Prevents Heartworm: Yes
- Prevents Lyme: Yes
- Application: Chewable tablet, once a month
- Age Requirement: 8 weeks, 4lbs and up
NexGard: The Tick Terminator
NexGard is a fantastic option if you’re looking for powerful flea and tick protection. It eliminates fleas and all major tick varieties. While it doesn’t cover heartworm or other parasites, it’s a solid choice for robust flea and tick control.
- Kills Fleas: Yes
- Kills Ticks: Yes (all five types)
- Protects Against Other Parasites: No
- Prevents Heartworm: No
- Prevents Lyme: Yes
- Application: Chewable tablet, once a month
- Age Requirement: 8 weeks, 4lbs and up
Heartgard: The Heart Hero
Heartgard is specially designed to protect against heartworm, one of the most dangerous parasites for dogs. It also takes care of hookworm and roundworm but doesn’t kill fleas or ticks. Pair it with a good flea and tick treatment for complete coverage.
- Kills Fleas: No
- Kills Ticks: No
- Protects Against Other Parasites: Hookworm, Roundworm
- Prevents Heartworm: Yes
- Prevents Lyme: No
- Application: Chewable tablet, once a month
- Age Requirement: 6 weeks, any weight
Simparica: The Flea and Tick Powerhouse
Simparica is another excellent option for flea and tick control. It covers all the bases when it comes to ticks and does an excellent job with fleas, too. However, it doesn’t cover heartworm or other parasites.
- Kills Fleas: Yes
- Kills Ticks: Yes (all five types)
- Protects Against Other Parasites: No
- Prevents Heartworm: No
- Prevents Lyme: No
- Application: Chewable tablet, once a month
- Age Requirement: 6 months, 2.8lbs and up
Which One is Right for Your Pup?
Choosing the right product depends on your dog’s specific needs. If you want an all-in-one solution, NexGard PLUS is unbeatable. For focused flea and tick protection, NexGard and Simparica are fantastic. If heartworm prevention is your main concern, Heartgard is your go-to.
Have Questions? Let’s Chat!
We know picking the right prevention can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help! Give us a call on (410)256-0742 today to discuss the best option for your furry friend. Our team is ready to answer all your questions and make sure your pet stays happy and healthy all year round.
Stay pawsome, pet parents! 🐶✨
