It must be started at the time of mosquito exposure, continued daily throughout exposure and for two months afterwards. Its effectiveness is severely reduced if there is any interruption in the daily dosing. This particular medication is effective in only eliminating the short lived L1 larvae and consequently has a narrow time of effectiveness. It is essential that the dog be free of heartworm microfilarae before starting this medication. Severe and even fatal reactions may occur if D.E.C. is given to a dog with microfilarae before starting the D.E.C. preventative.
Outdoor dogs are most susceptible to heartworm infection.
Even dogs kept indoors seldom can be completely protected from mosquitoes. Remember that infected dogs which aren't properly treated serve as a constant source of infection, making it essential to test dogs regularly for heartworm. Return to homepage Columbia Animal Hospital Hawthorne Professional Park 10788 Hickory Ridge Rd.