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 will be safe to give ivermectin to my dog? Keep reading if you want to find out since in this oneHOWTO article we wanted to show you everything about the Ivermectin for dogs: what it is, what it is for and dosageIn addition, we also explain the prevention and contraindications that it has so that its application is as correct and safe as possible.
What is ivermectin for dogs
Ivermectin is well known among people who have dogs and veterinarians, as it is usually the drug of choice for prevent various diseases like scabies and filariasis. This medicine is considered an antiparasitic with great efficiency to destroy different types of parasites, both external and internal.
Once ivermectin has penetrated the animal’s body, it inhibits the natural functioning of the body of the parasites against which it acts, causing paralysis and then death.
This drug is so popular because of its good anti-parasite performance, low cost, and easy availability. It can be found in pill, injectable or topical form, the first option being the one that is used frequently.
It must be borne 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 your account to your faithful friend without the prescription from a vet, since this will be the one that tells you the steps to follow along with the appropriate dose to administer.
What is ivermectin for dogs good for?
This drug was used for large animals, but it did not take long to spread to companion animals. This medicine has several uses against certain parasites, so ivermectin is used to eliminate and prevent parasites and specifically it is used like this:
- Acts against external parasites. Like ticks, although in dogs it is not very effective, 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 parasites 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 mange.
- 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 oneHOWTO article 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 Ivermectin dosage for dogs vary. In general, these are the most common doses:
- If you want to prevent filariasis: 6 micrograms (ug) per kilo of the dog.
- To treat sarcoptic mange: 300 ug per kilo.
- To treat demodectic scabies: 400-600 ug per kilo.
One microgram (ug) equals 0.000001 grams.
In front of one high dose poisoning you could observe the following symptoms:
- Pupil dilation.
- Blindness.
- Hypersalivation
- Lack of coordination.
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Eat.
Side effects of ivermectin for dogs
Like any type of drug, ivermectin can have side effects in the dog to which it is administered. These are the ones that can occur when we talk about ivermectin.
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tremors
- Fever.
- Itches
- Apathy and drowsiness.
Contraindications of ivermectin for dogs
It’s very important consult a vet before administering ivermectin to your dog because a wrong 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 What must be considered:
- Certain breeds can die if given this dewormer: long-haired collie, border collie, English shepherd, Australian sheepdog, and Afghan greyhound. This happens both in dogs of these pure breeds and in mixed-breed dogs that have genetics of these. This is due to a hereditary genetic mutation that makes these dogs sensitive and creates an intolerance towards ivermectin.
- This medicine should not be used in dogs that are less than 3 months old. Here we tell you when to start deworming a puppy and how to do it.
- Special care must be taken with the doses given to small breeds, as a high dose could cause poisoning and adverse effects.
- Do not use this medicine in elderly dogs.
- In pregnant or pregnant bitches its use is not indicated, as it could be harmful to both the bitch and her puppies.
- Do not under any circumstances give ivermectin to your dog if he is immunosuppressed or malnourished.
If you want to read more articles similar to Ivermectin for dogs: what it is, what it is for and dosage, we recommend that you enter our category of Pets.