Heartguard plus - heart worm medication for tiny 13 week puppy

[YorkieMiki]

My yorkie mix is only 2.3 lbs and 13 weeks old.

He was given heartguard for 2.5-20 lb dogs. Should I cut the chew tablet in half or smaller and save the other half for later? I was thinking it wouldn't be necessary and could possibly be too much given that the tablet is also for 20lb dogs.

Any suggestions?

[My lil friend]

You will need to ask your vet. I have read that some people give their dogs only half each month. My vet advised me to give half one day and the other half the next day.
I do understand your consern and I would certainly ask my vet before making a decision.

[EllaJoy]

My puppy is 14 weeks and 1.8 lbs and my vet gave her the same thing. He said it is safe even though she is at the smallest size of the spectrum. I was concerned like you especially because the thing is huge. I had to break it up in a bunch of pieces for her to eat it but she took it all and was just fine with no problems at all whatsoever!!

[Nancy1999]

I heard that you aren't suppose the cut then in half the medicine isn't mixed equally. Also, you are only covered by their guarantee, if you use the medicine exactly like it prescribed.

[Lovetodream88]

I heard you are not supposed to cut them but a lot of people with smaller dogs use Interceptor because the doses are broke down a little better.

[LuvMySissy]

Heartguard cannot be cut in half as the medication is not equally distributed. Interceptor would be a much better option. However, it is also my understanding that puppies under 6 months of age are not supposed to be on heartworm medication. I would definitely ask your vet....

[YorkieMiki]

Thanks for your replies....

Hmm I called the vet and she just said to take the whole amount because he is within the range of the weights it's for. I just still thought it was a little much.

Maybe next time I will try interceptor... I think my vet might not know

[Nancy1999]

Originally Posted by YorkieMiki

Thanks for your replies....

Hmm I called the vet and she just said to take the whole amount because he is within the range of the weights it's for. I just still thought it was a little much.

Maybe next time I will try interceptor... I think my vet might not know

If your vet doesn't know, I'd find a different vet. By the way, before getting any heartworm medication a dog should be tested to make sure they don't have heartworms. If they have them, the medication could kill the dog.