I usually give my dog's heartworm meds around the 8th of each month, and totally forgot this time—it's now the 2nd, is it okay to give it now or should I wait until next month?

I usually give my dog his heartworm medication around the 8th of each month, but it completely slipped my mind this time, and now it's already the 2nd of the following month. Can I give him the missed dose now, or should I wait for the next scheduled date to avoid any issues?

Answer

It seems you have missed your dog's scheduled heartworm medication. You may be wondering if it's okay to administer the dose now or if you should wait until the next due date.

  • You can give the missed dose as soon as possible.
  • Do not double the dose when the next scheduled date arrives.
  • Heartworm prevention is crucial to your dog's health.

It's generally safe to give your dog the missed heartworm medication dose now, rather than waiting. Monthly heartworm preventives have a certain level of flexibility built in for situations like this. Once you administer the dose, you can then resume your regular schedule on the 8th of the month. However, do not double up the dose when the next scheduled date arrives. Maintaining a consistent schedule is important, so consider setting reminders to help manage the timing. If you have any concerns, it's always a good idea to consult with a vet to ensure your dog's continued health and safety.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do if I miss a dose of my dog's heartworm medication?

    Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, then continue with the regular monthly schedule. It's better to give the dose late than to skip it entirely.

  • Can missing a single dose cause harm to my dog?

    Missing just one dose might not necessarily lead to a heartworm infection, but it's important to administer the medication as soon as possible to maintain continuous protection.

  • How can I remember to give my dog's medication on time?

    Consider setting alarms or reminders on your phone or calendar. You can also use a medication tracker app or mark your calendar each month when it's time to give the dose.

Next available appointment

Loading…