As a responsible pet owner, ensuring the health and well-being of your furry companion is a top priority. NexGard is a popular product designed to protect dogs from fleas and ticks. However, some pet owners have reported that NexGard is not working as expected. This article aims to delve into the possible reasons behind these issues and provide actionable insights to help you navigate this concern.
Understanding NexGard
NexGard is an oral flea and tick preventative that utilizes a novel ingredient, afoxolaner, to eliminate existing infestations and prevent future ones. Designed to be palatable and easy to administer, NexGard has gained traction among pet owners for its efficacy and convenience.
Key Benefits of NexGard:
- Fast-acting formula that starts killing fleas within hours.
- Provides up to 30 days of protection against fleas and ticks.
- Safe for dogs as young as eight weeks and weighing at least four pounds.
Despite these benefits, some pet owners find that NexGard is not offering the protection they expected. It’s essential to explore the possible factors impacting its effectiveness.
Why Is Your NexGard Not Working?
When faced with the situation of NexGard not working effectively, it’s vital to consider various factors that could be at play. Below are some common reasons:
1. Incorrect Dosage
One primary reason for NexGard’s ineffectiveness can be attributed to incorrect dosing. It is crucial to administer the correct dosage based on your dog’s weight. Dosage must align with the specific weight category listed on the packaging. Under-dosing may lead to insufficient active ingredients to combat parasites, while overdosing can cause health risks.
2. Resistance Development
In some cases, fleas and ticks may develop resistance to certain active ingredients over time. Although NexGard is designed to be effective, resistance can occur, particularly if your dog has been on a similar preventative for an extended period.
3. Environmental Factors
Environmental factors play a significant role in the effectiveness of any flea and tick prevention method. If your pet is exposed to a heavily infested environment, they may still encounter fleas and ticks, even if NexGard is working as intended.
Common Environmental Challenges
- Presence of fleas and ticks in your home or yard.
- Frequent visits to areas known for high infestations.
4. Administration Issues
Another factor that can impair the effectiveness of NexGard is improper administration. Ensure that your dog consumes the tablet entirely. Sometimes, dogs may chew the tablet without swallowing it completely, leading to reduced efficacy.
5. Pre-existing Infestation
If your dog already has a flea or tick infestation prior to starting NexGard, it may take some time for the product to completely eliminate these pests. It’s critical to treat your dog’s environment alongside using any flea and tick preventative to effectively manage an infestation.
How Long Does It Take for NexGard to Work?
NexGard typically starts to work within 4 hours after administration, killing fleas and ticks. However, complete elimination may take longer, especially with a severe pre-existing infestation.
What You Can Do When NexGard Isn’t Working
If you find that your dog is still experiencing flea or tick problems despite using NexGard, here are actionable steps to address the issue:
1. Verify Proper Administration and Dosage
Double-check the dosage provided and ensure you are administering it correctly. Consult your veterinarian to confirm the proper weight classification and dosage recommendation for your dog.
2. Monitor for Resistance
If you suspect resistance, talk to your veterinarian about switching to a different flea and tick preventive. Sometimes, rotating products can combat resistance.
3. Treat Your Home and Yard
It is essential to treat not just your pet but also their environment. Wash your dog’s bedding in hot water, vacuum your home regularly, and consider using environmental flea and tick treatments. You might even want to consult a pest control expert for an extensive yard treatment.
Steps for Environmental Treatment
- Wash dog bedding and toys in hot water weekly.
- Regularly vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
4. Consult with a Veterinarian
Your veterinarian is your best resource in these situations. If NexGard is consistently ineffective, consult them for alternative preventive measures, other products, or potential underlying health issues.
Other Alternative Flea and Tick Preventatives
If NexGard proves to be ineffective despite all measures, several alternative flea and tick preventatives may be suitable for your dog. Here’s a list of some other options:
1. Frontline Plus
Frontline Plus is a topical treatment that kills fleas, ticks, and flea eggs. It provides long-lasting protection and might be more effective for your pet if NexGard isn’t working.
2. Advantage II
Advantage II is another topical treatment that kills fleas at all life stages. It works quickly to eliminate infestations and could be a good alternative.
Best Practices for Flea and Tick Prevention
Taking a proactive approach to flea and tick prevention can enhance NexGard’s effectiveness or any alternative treatment you choose. Below are some best practices for safeguarding your pet.
1. Regular Grooming
Routine grooming not only keeps your dog looking good but also allows you to spot any pests early on. Use flea combs and inspect your pet’s coat periodically.
2. Maintain a Clean Environment
A clean environment significantly reduces the likelihood of flea and tick infestations. Perform regular cleaning and pest control measures in your home and yard.
3. Keep Your Dog’s Health in Check
A healthy dog is less likely to suffer from infestations. Regular veterinarian check-ups, a balanced diet, and vaccinations contribute to healthier skin and coat, which can repel parasites.
Conclusion
When NexGard does not seem to be working, it can be concerning for pet owners. Understanding the potential factors affecting its efficacy and implementing appropriate solutions is crucial for ensuring your pet’s well-being. From verifying the dosage and administration method to consulting your veterinarian and treating the environment, several steps can be taken to address these challenges effectively.
Ultimately, prevention is the best medicine. Whether you choose to continue with NexGard or consider alternative products, maintaining a consistent flea and tick prevention routine will provide your beloved pet with the protection they deserve. Always remember that your veterinarian is a valuable partner in managing your dog’s health, and seeking their guidance is key to overcoming these hurdles.
What should I do if NexGard isn’t working?
If you notice that NexGard isn’t effective for your pet, the first step is to consult your veterinarian. They can assess your pet’s specific situation, including their health status and any potential underlying conditions that may affect the medication’s efficacy. It’s important to provide them with detailed information about your pet’s symptoms and any flea or tick infestations you may still be observing.
Additionally, the veterinarian might recommend an alternate treatment or a combination of products that can enhance the results. In some cases, it may also be necessary to treat your pet’s environment, as fleas and ticks can thrive in the home, re-infesting your pet even after treatment.
Could my pet have an allergy to NexGard?
Yes, it’s possible for some pets to develop an allergic reaction to NexGard. Symptoms of an allergy may include excessive itching, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset. If your pet appears to be experiencing these symptoms after starting the medication, it’s crucial to seek veterinary assistance immediately to determine the next steps and to explore alternative flea and tick treatments.
Your veterinarian can perform tests to confirm whether the symptoms are indeed due to an allergy. Based on the diagnosis, they may suggest switching to another preventative treatment that does not contain the same active ingredients or may consider adjusting the dosage, depending on your pet’s size and health condition.
Is NexGard effective against all types of ticks and fleas?
NexGard is specifically designed to target four major species of fleas and ticks: the black-legged ticks, the American dog tick, the brown dog tick, and the Western black-legged tick. While it is effective against these pests, it may not be as effective against other types of ticks or specific strains of fleas. Understanding the pests that are prevalent in your region can help determine whether NexGard is the right choice for your pet.
If you suspect that your pet is being affected by a pest not covered by NexGard, your veterinarian can suggest alternative treatments or combinations that might offer broader protection. Keeping your pet protected requires awareness of local flea and tick populations, and selection of the most effective preventative treatments.
What if my pet has a heavy flea or tick infestation?
If your pet is experiencing a heavy infestation of fleas or ticks, NexGard alone may not be sufficient to resolve the problem quickly. In such cases, your veterinarian might advise implementing a more comprehensive parasite control plan, possibly involving additional products like topical treatments or collars that work synergistically with NexGard.
Moreover, addressing the infestation in your home and yard is equally important. This may include washing your pet’s bedding, vacuuming carpets and upholstery, and possibly using environmental sprays or treatments to eliminate flea eggs and larvae that can contribute to re-infestation.
How long does it take for NexGard to start working?
NexGard starts to work rapidly, with the active ingredient, afoxolaner, typically killing fleas within 8 hours of administration. For ticks, its efficacy may take a bit longer, with most types being killed within 48 hours. However, exact timing can vary based on factors such as your pet’s health, the severity of the infestation, and adherence to dosage instructions.
If you observe ongoing activity or reinfestation after this window, consult your veterinarian. They can rule out resistance issues or suggest alternative treatments that may provide a more immediate solution if needed.
Can I give my pet NexGard if they have certain health conditions?
Before administering NexGard to pets with pre-existing health conditions, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian. Some conditions, like seizures, may increase the risk of adverse reactions to the medication. Your vet can evaluate the specific health issues your pet faces and determine if NexGard is appropriate or if an alternative flea and tick preventative would be safer.
Transparency about your pet’s health history allows your veterinarian to provide tailored recommendations. They might suggest monitoring your pet more closely after administration or considering different treatment options to better suit their specific health needs.
How can I ensure NexGard is working properly for my pet?
To ensure that NexGard is functioning correctly, it’s essential to administer it as directed by your veterinarian. This includes giving the proper dosage for your pet’s weight and not skipping doses. Regularly monitor your pet for any signs of fleas or ticks and keep an eye out for any side effects that may indicate a reaction to the medication.
Maintaining a clean environment is also vital. Regularly washing pet bedding, vacuuming, and using environmental treatments can help minimize the chances of reinfestation. Additionally, having routine checks done by your veterinarian can help assure that your parasite prevention plan remains effective.