HOOKWORMS

Question
IF I AM GIVING MY DOG INTERCEPTOR MONTHLY AND IT SAYS IT PREVENTS HOOKWORMS, CAN MY DOG STILL GET HOOKWORMS?

Answer
Hi Dianne,

Interceptor eliminates heartworm larvae and the adult stage of hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm. So if there are immature worms when your dog is started on the treatment, they will mature before the next dosage, but then be killed. Interceptor does not prevent your dog from picking up new intestinal parasites, but because this medication is given once a month, if any new parasites are picked up, they're killed before they can cause harm.

Most dogs will not get an infestation of intestinal parasites when on Interceptor, however depending on where you live and the conditions your dog is subject to, it's possible for him to pick up a case of "worms". If your dog is having symptoms such as bloody stools, weight loss, pale gums, diarrhea or low energy levels, you should bring a fecal sample to your veterinarian for examination.

If your dog has a recurrence of worms while being on Interceptor year round, the company that manufactures it (Novartis) may reimburse you for the cost of the medication and for the fecal checks. Novartis guarantees that you are not completely satisfied with Interceptor, they will replace it, or refund the full purchase price if it was purchased through your vet's clinic.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti