Trifexis: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Large Dog from Parasites

Introduction

When it comes to protecting your furry companion from the myriad of parasites lurking in the environment, Trifexis stands as a trusted and effective solution. Trifexis is a broad-spectrum monthly chewable that safeguards dogs weighing between 60 and 120 pounds against a wide range of internal and external parasites, ensuring their overall well-being.

What is Trifexis?

Trifexis is a combination medication that contains three active ingredients:

• Spinosad: An insecticide that kills fleas and ticks
• Milbemycin oxime: A heartworm preventative and intestinal dewormer
• Praziquantel: A cestode (tapeworm) dewormer

Why Choose Trifexis?

Trifexis offers numerous benefits that make it an ideal choice for dog owners looking for comprehensive parasite protection.

1. Broad-Spectrum Coverage: Trifexis protects against a wide range of parasites, including:

• Fleas: Kills adult fleas and prevents flea eggs from hatching
• Ticks: Kills ticks, including those that transmit Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Heartworms: Prevents heartworm disease, a potentially fatal condition
• Roundworms: Kills roundworms, including those that can cause severe gastrointestinal problems
• Hookworms: Kills hookworms, which can lead to anemia and weight loss
• Whipworms: Kills whipworms, which can cause diarrhea and weight loss
• Tapeworms: Kills tapeworms, which can cause weight loss and other health problems

2. Monthly Administration: Trifexis is a once-a-month chewable, making it highly convenient and easy to administer. This regular dosing schedule ensures consistent parasite protection throughout the year.

3. Palatable Chewable: Trifexis comes in the form of tasty chewables that dogs enjoy, making it stress-free to give your pet their monthly parasite protection.

How to Use Trifexis

1. Dosage: The recommended dosage of Trifexis is one chewable per month for dogs weighing between 60 and 120 pounds.

2. Administration: Give Trifexis with or without food to your dog once a month. It is best given on the same day each month to maintain consistent protection.

3. Duration of Treatment: Trifexis should be administered year-round, even in the winter months when parasite exposure may be limited. This ensures uninterrupted protection from parasites.

Safety and Side Effects

Trifexis is generally safe and well-tolerated by dogs. However, as with any medication, there is a potential for side effects. The most common side effects associated with Trifexis include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Seizures (rare)

If you observe any side effects in your dog after administering Trifexis, contact your veterinarian promptly.

Precautions

1. Do not use in dogs less than 60 pounds: Trifexis is specifically formulated for dogs weighing 60-120 pounds. Do not administer Trifexis to dogs under 60 pounds.

2. Do not use in puppies less than 8 weeks old: Trifexis is not approved for use in puppies under 8 weeks of age.

3. Use with caution in dogs with epilepsy: Trifexis contains spinosad, which has been associated with seizures in some dogs. If your dog has a history of epilepsy, consult with your veterinarian before using Trifexis.

Effective Strategies for Using Trifexis

• Establish a consistent monthly dosing schedule: Remember to administer Trifexis on the same day each month to ensure uninterrupted parasite protection.
• Check for parasites regularly: Even with Trifexis, it is important to periodically check your dog for signs of parasites, such as fleas, ticks, or worms.
• Keep your dog's environment clean: Regularly vacuum and clean your home to reduce the risk of parasite exposure.
• Avoid areas where parasites are prevalent: Keep your dog away from areas where fleas, ticks, or other parasites are known to be present, such as tall grass, wooded areas, and dog parks.

Tips and Tricks

• Make Trifexis administration a positive experience: Give your dog a treat or praise them after administering Trifexis to make the experience more enjoyable for them.
• Store Trifexis properly: Keep Trifexis in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
• Travel with Trifexis: When traveling with your dog, always carry a sufficient supply of Trifexis** to ensure uninterrupted parasite protection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping doses: Do not skip doses of Trifexis, as this can compromise your dog's parasite protection.
• Treating dogs under 60 pounds: Trifexis is not suitable for dogs under 60 pounds. Do not administer it to smaller dogs, as it can be harmful.
• Using Trifexis in puppies under 8 weeks old: Trifexis is not approved for use in puppies under 8 weeks of age. Wait until your puppy reaches the appropriate age before starting Trifexis.
• Forgetting to check for parasites: Even with Trifexis, it is important to regularly check your dog for signs of parasites.

Conclusion

Trifexis is a highly effective and convenient choice for comprehensive parasite protection in large dogs weighing between 60 and 120 pounds. By following the instructions carefully and using Trifexis consistently, you can protect your furry companion from a wide range of parasites, ensuring their overall health and well-being. Remember, parasite prevention is a crucial aspect of responsible dog ownership, and Trifexis provides the peace of mind that your dog is protected year-round.