There are many doubts when talking about ivermectin for dogs, since it is known that a certain dose in certain breeds can be toxic and deadly for the dog. So how do I know if it’s going to be safe to give my dog ivermectin? Keep reading if you want to find out because in this OneHOWTO article we wanted to show you everything about ivermectin for dogs: what it is, what it is for and its dosage , we also explain its prevention and contraindications so that its application is the most correct and safe as possible.
You may also be interested in: Albendazole for dogs: what is it, what is it for and dose
Index
- What is ivermectin for dogs
- What is ivermectin for dogs
- Ivermectin for dogs: dosage
- Side Effects of Ivermectin for Dogs
- Contraindications of ivermectin for dogs
What is ivermectin for dogs
Ivermectin is well known among dog owners and veterinarians as it is often the drug of choice to prevent various diseases such as mange and heartworm. This medicine is considered an antiparasitic with great efficacy in destroying different types of parasites, both external and internal.
Once ivermectin has penetrated the animal’s body, it inhibits the natural functioning of the organism of the parasites against which it acts, causing paralysis and then death.
This medicine is so popular due to its good performance against parasites, its low cost and its easy availability. It can be found in pill, injectable or topical form, the first option being the one that is used frequently.
Keep in mind that depending on the age of the dog, the weight and the type of parasite to be treated or prevented, the dose will vary and it is vital to administer an adequate dose and in a certain way, so under no circumstances should you administer it by yourself. your account to your faithful friend without the prescription of a veterinarian , since it will be this one that tells you the steps to follow along with the appropriate dose to administer.
What is ivermectin for dogs
This medicine was used for large animals, but it did not take long for it to spread to pets. This medicine has several uses against certain parasites, so ivermectin is used to eliminate and prevent parasites and is specifically used as follows:
- It acts against external parasites. Like ticks, although it is not very effective on dogs, so it is recommended to acquire a more suitable antiparasitic for these unwanted visitors if your friend’s problem is that he only has fleas or ticks. In addition, it destroys mites, which are a type of external parasite responsible for mange in dogs. In fact, ivermectin is used to treat both sarcoptic and demodectic mange. Here we tell you how to know if a dog has scabies .
- It acts against internal parasites. These parasites can cause stomach, heart, metabolic and respiratory problems, such as filariasis, which can also be dangerous for humans since it can be transmitted (zoonosis). In this other article from OneHOWTO we explain how to know if a dog has filariasis , so that you know the basic symptoms to be able to take it to the vet as soon as possible.
Ivermectin for dogs: dosage
As we have mentioned before, depending on the weight of the animal and the problem to be treated, the doses of ivermectin for dogs vary. In general, these are the most common doses:
- If you want to prevent heartworm disease: 6 micrograms (ug) per kilo of the dog.
- To treat sarcoptic mange: 300 ug per kilo.
- To treat demodectic mange: 400-600 ug per kilo.
One microgram (ug) is equal to 0.000001 grams.
Faced with intoxication by high doses you could observe the following symptoms:
- Pupil dilation.
- hypersalivation
- seizures
Side Effects of Ivermectin for Dogs
Like any type of drug, ivermectin can have side effects on the dog to which it is administered. These are the ones that can be presented when we talk about ivermectin.
- constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting.
- itching
- Apathy and sleepiness.
Contraindications of ivermectin for dogs
It is very important to consult a veterinarian before administering ivermectin to your dog because an erroneous dose of this drug can harm the dog, as well as if you give it when it would be contraindicated. These are, generally, the contraindications of ivermectin for dogs that must be taken into account:
- Certain breeds can die if given this antiparasitic: long-haired collie, border collie, English shepherd, Australian shepherd and Afghan hound. This happens both in dogs of these pure breeds and in mestizo dogs that have genetics from these. This happens through an inherited genetic mutation that makes these dogs sensitive and creates an intolerance towards ivermectin.
- This drug should not be used in dogs less than 3 months of age. Here we tell you when to start deworming a puppy and how to do it.
- Special care must be taken with the doses administered to small breeds, since a high dose could cause intoxication and adverse effects.
- Do not use this drug in elderly dogs.
- In pregnant or gestating dogs its use is not indicated, since it could be harmful to both the bitch and her puppies.
- Do not administer ivermectin to your dog under any circumstances if he is immunosuppressed or malnourished.
