15/10/2026
🦟 HEARTWORM PREVENTION: WHICH OPTION IS RIGHT FOR YOUR DOG? 🐾
Heartworm is present in the mosquito population here in Charters Towers. The good news is that heartworm disease is preventable!
There are several options available, each with its own pros and cons.
💉 1. YEARLY INJECTION
✅ Pros
- 12 months of heartworm protection with one injection.
- No monthly doses to remember.
- Can be combined with your dog's annual vet visit.
❌ Cons
- Does not provide complete protection against fleas, ticks and all intestinal worms, so additional parasite prevention may be needed.
- Cannot be given at home unlike other prevention methods.
💊 2. MONTHLY TABLETS OR CHEWS
✅ Pros
- Easy to give at home.
- Some combination products also protect against fleas, ticks and intestinal worms.
- Different products are available to suit your dog's needs.
❌ Cons
- Must be given on time every month.
- Some dogs refuse tablets or may spit them out.
💧 3. MONTHLY SPOT-ON TREATMENTS
✅ Pros
- Applied to the skin rather than given by mouth.
- A useful option for dogs that are difficult to tablet.
- Some products also protect against fleas and other parasites.
❌ Cons
- Must be applied regularly every month.
- Application can be messy, and bathing or swimming may affect some products.
- The parasites covered vary between products.
🐾 Which option is best?
The best choice depends on your dog's age, lifestyle and the other parasite protection they need.
⚠️ If your dog has never been on heartworm prevention or has missed doses, speak with your vet before starting or restarting treatment. A heartworm test may be recommended first.
📞 Contact Gold City Veterinary Clinic on (07) 4787 4949 to discuss the best option for your dog!
🌐 www.goldcityvets.com.au