Protecting your furry companion from ticks is crucial for their health and well-being. Ticks can transmit various diseases, posing a serious threat to dogs. When considering tick prevention methods, it’s essential to understand how different products work. One popular option is Nexgard, a chewable flea and tick medication. Many pet owners wonder if Nexgard effectively kills ticks that are already attached to their dogs.
Does Nexgard Kill Ticks Already On Dog?
Nexgard is a prescription medication containing afoxolaner, an insecticide that belongs to the isoxazoline class. It works by targeting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, leading to paralysis and death. However, it’s important to note that Nexgard primarily acts as a preventative measure.
How Nexgard Works
Nexgard is absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream and distributed throughout the skin and fur. When a flea or tick comes into contact with the treated dog, it ingests the medication through its saliva. This ingestion disrupts the tick’s nervous system, causing it to die.
Effectiveness Against Attached Ticks
While Nexgard is highly effective at preventing tick infestations, its ability to kill ticks that are already attached to a dog is limited. Studies have shown that Nexgard may kill some attached ticks, but it’s not guaranteed. It’s best to remove any visible ticks promptly and carefully using tweezers.
Does NexGard Kill Ticks Already On Dog?
NexGard is a popular chewable flea and tick preventative medication for dogs. It’s known for its effectiveness in preventing flea and tick infestations, but a common question pet owners have is whether it kills ticks that are already attached to their dog.
How NexGard Works
NexGard contains aactive ingredient called afoxolaner, which belongs to a class of drugs called isoxazoline insecticides. Afoxolaner works by targeting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, ultimately leading to their paralysis and death. (See Also: Do Dogs Have Eyelashes)
Mechanism of Action
When a dog ingests NexGard, the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. When a flea or tick bites the dog, it ingests the afoxolaner present in the dog’s blood. The insecticide disrupts the tick’s nervous system, causing paralysis and death.
NexGard and Existing Ticks
While NexGard is highly effective at preventing flea and tick infestations, it is **not** designed to kill ticks that are already attached to a dog.
The medication works best when administered preventatively, meaning before a dog is exposed to fleas or ticks. Once a tick has already attached itself to the dog, it has likely already started feeding and may be more difficult to kill with NexGard alone.
What to Do About Existing Ticks
If you find a tick attached to your dog, it’s important to remove it promptly and carefully.
Tick Removal
- Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this can break off its mouthparts and increase the risk of infection.
- Clean the bite area with soap and water or an antiseptic solution.
After removing the tick, monitor your dog for any signs of illness, such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite. If you notice any concerning symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. (See Also: How Much Is A Yorkie Dog Worth)
Recap
NexGard is an effective flea and tick preventative medication for dogs, but it is not designed to kill ticks that are already attached. For best results, administer NexGard as directed by your veterinarian to prevent flea and tick infestations. If you find a tick on your dog, remove it carefully and monitor your dog for any signs of illness.
FAQs: Does NexGard Kill Ticks Already On Dog?
Does NexGard kill ticks that are already on my dog?
NexGard is designed to prevent ticks from attaching to your dog in the first place. It works by killing ticks within 24 hours of them attaching. However, it does not immediately kill ticks that are already present on your dog.
How long does it take for NexGard to kill ticks?
NexGard starts working within 30 minutes and will kill ticks within 24 hours of them attaching to your dog.
What should I do if I find a tick on my dog after giving them NexGard?
If you find a tick on your dog after giving them NexGard, remove it carefully with fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or squeezing the tick, as this can increase the risk of infection. (See Also: What To Do If My Dog Bites My Child)
Is NexGard effective against all types of ticks?
NexGard is effective against a variety of common tick species, including American dog ticks, blacklegged ticks (deer ticks), and brown dog ticks.
Can I use NexGard on puppies?
NexGard is not recommended for puppies under 8 weeks of age or weighing less than 4 pounds. Consult your veterinarian for appropriate flea and tick prevention for your puppy.
