Heartworm disease is a serious health concern for pets, and the best way to avoid these parasites from harming your dog or cat is through preventative care from your veterinarian. Some pet owners decide to circumvent vet appointments by purchasing heartworm medication online. Unfortunately, using medicine from unknown sources can be a huge risk for your pet’s health. Here’s why you should always acquire heartworm prevention from your vet.

3 Reasons a Veterinarian Should Be Your Only Source for Heartworm Meds

1. Safe Storage Practices

When it comes to medication bought online, there’s no way of knowing where it comes from. Medicine needs to be kept in specific conditions to ensure it remains effective, and when you receive your pills from a questionable source, you have no proof that they were stored or shipped properly. Incorrect storage is especially likely if the product was sold second-hand. Veterinarians receive medication straight from the manufacturer and store it in a clean, dry, and temperature-controlled environment.

2. Quality Assurance

Websites can claim they are a reputable source, but because they don’t need to show credentials, they may be selling you fake medicine. Phony medication can either be sugar pills or something much more dangerous. While it might be harmless filler, if you believe your pet is medicated against heartworm, you may be less likely to recognize symptoms of infection. Worse still, fake meds could actively harm your pet. With a veterinarian, you know you’re getting real, quality medicine, as they only purchase products from verified manufacturers.

3. Familiarity With Pets & Products

Just like humans, a pet’s doctor needs to know their medical history to prescribe or recommend a product to them. You wouldn’t want to give your dog heartworm medicine containing ingredients they’re allergic to. Your veterinarian is familiar with your pet’s health and history, so they can safely and accurately direct you to the best medicine for your pet. If you have questions about the product, they will have answers. Vets know the risks, side effects, ingredients, and proper implementation. When you buy medicine from a well-informed source, you can rest assured that your pet is in good hands.

Effective heartworm prevention is a key component of pet health. At Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic in Lincoln County, MO, their veterinarians place emphasis on the importance of preventative care. Whether your pet needs vaccines or parasite control, this animal hospital will work with you to create a custom program that suits your pet’s lifestyle, age, breed, and environment. If you would like to set up an appointment with a vet, call (636) 528-4534 today. Learn more about their health services online.