Flea, tick, heart worm prevention?

[Anonymous]

New puppy owner here. (Yes, I'm tired). Our breeder strongly suggested we avoid oral flea, tick and heart worm prevention because "it causes neurological issues." They were so adamant about it that they will void any health warranties if we choose to use these oral preventatives. Well, I took my puppy into the vet and he recommends it and said the topical options just don't work as well. He specifically recommended Simparica Trio. I did some research and it looks like less than 1 percent of dogs have an adverse reaction. I obviously trust my vet more than the breeder, but also curious what you all do for your pets? And is this concern overblown?

[Anonymous]

My vet has my two dogs on Simparico Trio, and she is an incredible vet whom I trust completely. And we've had no problems with Simparico Trio.

This makes me question your breeder, tbh. They are using a very, very small risk to limit liability -- and not because the preventatives themselves are unsafe in a broad way.

If the dog had a history of seizures, then your vet might not recommend oral preventatives. But otherwise? Just follow the vet's advice. Heartworm is a horrible, horrible thing. As is tickborn illness. And fleas aren't a walk in the park, either.

[Anonymous]

I do Simparica Trio for all your dogs. Your breeder is a loon.

[Anonymous]

I gave my dog an oral flea and tick med for 18 years. Never any issues. I have two dogs now who have had simparica trio for 5 years. No issues. Listen to your vet. It's pretty expensive though. Maybe $40/month.

[Anonymous]

15:06 here again. For all MY dogs. I have three right now. I research everything to death and preventatives are a must. Three out of my four dogs (one passed a couple of years ago) were treated for heartworm disease by my rescue before I adopted them. HW disease is no joke and oral preventatives are the only real way to prevent it.

[Anonymous]

15:06 here for the third time. I get it at Costco. Better price than anywhere else I;ve found. A six month supply is $143 for my smallest dog, $144 for my next smallest dog, and $159 for my largest dog (44-88 lb box)

[Anonymous]

Yeah, my main complaint about Simparica Trio is that it's expensive as hell. My dog does great on it and I love the peace of mind that comes from knowing that my pup is protected.

[Anonymous]

Thank you all! Puppy's next visit is in 2 weeks so we'll get started on it then.

I thought it sounded strange, but the breeder was so strongly opposed I needed some additional reassurance.

And thanks for the heads up: Costco for the win!

[Anonymous]

Maybe breeder is not from this region so not extremely concerned about heartworms? In any case - I'd have more questions to that breeder
Our dogs are on Simparica Trio per vet recommendation.

[Anonymous]

PS and we buy it online from Canada I think

[Anonymous]

My breeder had the same recommendation and voiding of warranty. I listen to my vet for medical advice for my dog. He is on Nexgard Plus which is a similar combo for flea/tick and heartworm. Five years old, no issues.

[Anonymous]

Your breeder is not a vet. Please rely on the medically trained expert.

[Anonymous]

I have heard that some dogs have seizures because of it. But with that said, we use Simarica TRIO and have never had an issue. And yes, it's expensive. I pay $210 for 6 pills.

[Anonymous]

Another one using Simparica Trio, our vet said it was his Gold Standard. 5 years and no issues whatsoever. It is pricey!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Another one using Simparica Trio, our vet said it was his Gold Standard. 5 years and no issues whatsoever. It is pricey!

Yes that's what we use too and it's great!