Need recommendations for heartworm preventative for DM GSD… - Page 1

I’ve got an adult GSD diagnosed with DM. With spring here it is time to get him onto heartworm preventative. DM, being a auto-immune disorder, and most commercial heartworm products increase immune responsiveness, it is not a good mix.

Does anyone have advice on heartworm preventative for DM dogs? And/or, could you comment on the following:
 
plain diethylcarbamazine (DEC or Filaribits?)
 
Revolution?
 
Thanks,
 
-Calvin

 Calvin,

My recommendation is for you to consider risk vs benefit. What is the reality of your dog getting heartworm? In other words, where do you live? I live in an area where it is not very common and I try to monitor the weather, standing water, mosquito load etc. I don't give any of my dogs heartworm meds for that, but do for regular worming.

Frankly, if I had a dog with DM, and if I lived in an area where heartworm was endemic, I would not hesitate to give it Heartgard regularly. It will make no difference in the progression of the disease. There are a few things you might do to slow the progression of the disease, but you cannot stop it. If you want more information about things you might consider doing, feel free to email me privately.

regards!