I'm feeling pretty stressed and could really use some advice. My dog, Cooper, is a lovable ball of energy who just can't sit still—he's always zipping around like a furry hurricane! Lately, he’s been dealing with some flea issues and I want to start him on Nexgard since I’ve heard great things about it. The problem is that Cooper's weight is kind of a tricky situation. He’s a Border Collie mix and his weight seems to fluctuate around the threshold of the dosage guidelines. Sometimes he'll be a little under, sometimes right at the cusp. I'm worried about giving him the wrong dose and either under-medicating him or, worse, giving him too much. Has anyone dealt with a similar issue? Should I weigh him right before a dose and decide then, or talk to my vet about possibly adjusting his diet to keep his weight more stable? I just want to make sure I’m keeping him happy and healthy. Any thoughts or experiences would be a huge help. Thanks!
Hello! It’s great that you’re being proactive about your pup's health. When it comes to medications like NexGard, ensuring the proper dosage for your dog's weight is crucial for effectiveness and safety. If your dog is close to the borderline weight for a specific dose, it’s usually safer to either split the dose or opt for the more appropriate dosage size, based on your vet’s recommendation.
Potential issues with incorrect dosing can include underdosing, which might not effectively protect your dog from fleas and ticks, or overdosing, which could lead to side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If you've already given a dose that's on the higher end, keep an eye out for these symptoms.
For at-home care, maintain a regular weight check routine. This helps ensure your dog is within the appropriate range and guides proper medical dosing. Additionally, keep your dog’s environment clean to reduce flea and tick risks naturally.
If you notice any serious symptoms such as severe vomiting, seizures, or significant behavioral changes, it's important to contact a veterinarian immediately, as these could indicate a more serious reaction.
For specific guidance tailored to your furry friend, I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet to discuss the best approach for your dog's weight and health needs. It’s the best way to ensure your pet’s safety and well-being!
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