NexGard Chewables : The Ultimate Flea & Tick Protection for Dogs

NexGard Chewables : Your Dog’s Defense Against Fleas and Ticks.

For dog owners, fleas and ticks are more than just annoying pests; they pose serious health risks to pets. These parasites can cause itching, skin infections, and even transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease. Protecting your dog from these harmful pests is a top priority, but finding the right product can be challenging. That’s where NexGard Chewables come in. NexGard offers a simple, effective way to keep fleas and ticks off your dog without the mess or hassle of topical treatments.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes NexGard chewables so effective, how they work, and why they are trusted by vets and pet owners alike. Plus, we’ll explore how to use NexGard safely and the peace of mind it brings knowing your dog is protected.

What Are NexGard Chewables?

NexGard Chewables are a monthly, beef-flavored tablet designed to protect your dog from fleas and ticks. Unlike topical treatments, which can leave greasy residue on your dog’s fur, NexGard is an oral treatment that works from the inside out. This product is highly recommended by veterinarians and is approved by the FDA for its safety and efficacy in protecting dogs from flea infestations and tick-borne diseases.

Key Benefits of NexGard Chewables.

• Easy to Administer: Dogs love the beef flavor, making it easy to give as a treat.
• Monthly Protection: Just one chew provides 30 days of protection from fleas and ticks.
• Kills Fleas and Ticks Fast: NexGard kills fleas before they lay eggs and eliminates ticks quickly, reducing the risk of disease transmission.
• FDA-Approved: NexGard has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it’s safe for dogs when used as directed.

With these benefits, it’s no wonder that so many pet owners have turned to NexGard as their go-to solution for flea and tick control.

How Do NexGard Chewables Work?

NexGard works by targeting the nervous system of fleas and ticks. The active ingredient, afoxolaner, is absorbed into your dog’s bloodstream after ingestion. When a flea or tick bites your dog, the parasite ingests the afoxolaner, which causes uncontrolled activity in its nervous system, leading to its death. This fast-acting process means that NexGard not only kills adult fleas but also prevents infestations by stopping new eggs from being laid.

What Makes Afoxolaner Effective?

Afoxolaner is a broad-spectrum insecticide that specifically targets parasites while remaining safe for dogs. It binds to the nerve cell receptors of fleas and ticks, causing hyper-excitation and death. Importantly, afoxolaner does not affect the nervous system of mammals, so it’s safe for use in dogs when administered at the appropriate dosage.

When Should You Give Your Dog NexGard?

NexGard Chewables are recommended for use every month to maintain consistent protection. They can be given to puppies as young as eight weeks old and are safe for dogs weighing at least four pounds. While fleas and ticks are more active during the warmer months, they can still pose a threat year-round, especially in milder climates. Therefore, year-round protection is often recommended to ensure your dog is fully protected against these pests.

Situations Where NexGard is Especially Helpful:

• Flea Infestations: If your dog is dealing with a current flea infestation, NexGard can stop the cycle by killing fleas before they can lay eggs.
• Tick Prevention: Ticks are not only a nuisance but also carriers of diseases like Lyme disease. NexGard ensures ticks are killed before they can transmit any illness.
• Dogs That Dislike Topical Treatments: Some dogs hate the mess of spot-on flea treatments or may have reactions to them. NexGard’s chewable format is an ideal alternative.

How to Give NexGard to Your Dog.

One of the most appealing aspects of NexGard is how easy it is to administer. The chewable tablet is beef-flavored, so most dogs eagerly gobble it up as if it were a treat. Simply offer it to your dog on or around the same day each month to maintain consistent protection.

Tips for Administering NexGard:

• Make It Part of Your Routine: Choose a day each month that’s easy to remember. You could pair it with another event, like the first day of the month.
• Give with or without Food: NexGard can be given on an empty stomach, but if your dog is a bit finicky, you can hide it in food or offer it alongside their regular meal.
• Monitor for Side Effects: While side effects are rare, it’s always good to observe your dog after administering a new medication. NexGard is generally well-tolerated, but some dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.

Are There Any Side Effects to NexGard?

Like any medication, NexGard can cause side effects, though they are typically rare and mild. Most dogs handle the medication well, but here are some potential side effects to be aware of:

• Vomiting: In some cases, dogs may vomit after taking NexGard, especially if they are sensitive to oral medications.
• Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal upset is possible, but usually resolves quickly.
• Lethargy: Some dogs may seem a bit tired after taking the chew, but this should pass within a few hours.

If your dog experiences any severe reactions, such as seizures or difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian immediately. However, such reactions are extremely rare, and NexGard’s safety profile has been well-documented through clinical trials.

NexGard vs. Other Flea and Tick Treatments.

With so many flea and tick products available, you might be wondering how NexGard stacks up against other options. Here’s a quick comparison of NexGard with common alternatives:

NexGard vs. Topical Treatments.

• Mess-Free: Unlike topical treatments, NexGard doesn’t leave any greasy residue on your dog’s coat.
• Faster Acting: Because NexGard works through the bloodstream, it begins killing fleas and ticks within hours, while topicals may take up to 48 hours to be fully effective.

NexGard vs. Flea Collars.

• Longer Protection: Flea collars provide extended protection, but some can lose effectiveness if they get wet. NexGard’s monthly dosing is consistent and reliable.
• Targeted Efficacy: NexGard specifically targets fleas and ticks without the risk of the medication being affected by your dog’s environment.

NexGard vs. Oral Medications.

• Beef Flavor: NexGard is a chewable, making it easier for dogs to consume compared to traditional pills.
• Single Focus: While some oral medications combine flea and tick protection with heartworm prevention, NexGard focuses solely on flea and tick elimination, ensuring maximum efficacy for those pests.

FAQs About NexGard Chewables.

Can NexGard be used on puppies?

• Yes, NexGard is safe for puppies as young as eight weeks, provided they weigh at least four pounds.

How quickly does NexGard start working?

• NexGard starts killing fleas within 30 minutes and ticks within 48 hours of administration.

Can NexGard prevent heartworms?

• No, NexGard is specifically for flea and tick prevention. For heartworm protection, you’ll need a separate product.

How long does a dose of NexGard last?

• Each dose of NexGard provides protection for 30 days, so you’ll need to give it monthly to ensure continuous protection.

Can NexGard be used alongside other medications?

• Yes, NexGard is generally safe to use alongside other medications, including heartworm preventatives. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet first.

Is NexGard safe for pregnant or lactating dogs?

• NexGard has not been evaluated in pregnant or lactating dogs, so it’s best to consult your veterinarian if your dog falls into this category.