We see it all to often when a Sheltie is surrendered to
us, and the owners tell us the Sheltie has seizures "once per month".
Heartguard is a wonderful and very effective product
that has saved countless dogs from getting Heartworm. However
some Shelties and Collies react very adversely to Heartguard.
If you are using Heartguard every month, and you notice your Sheltie
having seizure(s) every month, this may be the culprit.
IF your Sheltie's seizures are caused by the Ivermectin
in Heartguard......most often switching to a different Heartworm
Preventative will solve the problem..... Intercepter or
Sentinal are both good alternatives.
Heartworm Preventative is VITAL in protecting your
Sheltie from a deadly heartworm infestation, and should not be
discontinued under any circumstances. If you suspect your
Sheltie may be experiencing monthly seizures that coincide with your
monthly heartworm pill, please talk to your vet and ask him/her to work
with you on checking out this possibility.
It is also important to note that several years ago, the
formula in Heartguard was changed and relabeled as "now safe for Shelties
and Collies". And while the new formula did help matters
considerably....... we DO still see some Shelties react to it.
Heartguard in other breeds of dogs is still highly
recommended, and very effective.
The information on this page is solely intended to help Sheltie
owners who are struggling with monthly seizures in their Shelties.
It is NOT intended in any way to discourage the use of Heartguard in other
dog breeds, or in Shelties who are not having seizures. If your
Sheltie has been using Heartguard and has not had a problem with seizures,
there is no reason to switch medications.
