Is Sentinel Safe For Dogs
Sentinel is a popular medication for dogs that helps to prevent heartworm disease, flea infestations, and other types of parasitic infections. However, many pet owners are concerned about the safety of this medication and wonder if it’s really safe for their furry friends. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at sentinel and explore whether or not it’s a safe and effective choice for your dog.
What Is Sentinel?
Before we dive into the safety of sentinel, let’s first take a moment to understand what this medication is and how it works. Sentinel is a monthly oral medication that’s designed to prevent heartworm disease, fleas, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms in dogs. It contains two active ingredients: milbemycin oxime and lufenuron.
Milbemycin oxime works by interfering with the nervous system of parasites like heartworms, causing them to become paralyzed and die. Lufenuron, on the other hand, prevents the growth and development of fleas by inhibiting the production of chitin, a key component in their exoskeletons.
Is Sentinel Safe for Dogs?
Now that we understand what sentinel is and how it works, let’s address the question on everyone’s mind: is it safe for dogs? The answer is yes – when used as directed by a veterinarian.
Like any medication, there are potential side effects associated with sentinel. The most common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and itching. However, these side effects are usually mild and typically go away on their own within a few days.
In rare cases, dogs may experience more serious side effects such as seizures or allergic reactions. If your dog experiences any unusual symptoms after taking sentinel, be sure to contact your veterinarian right away.
It’s also important to note that sentinel should only be given to dogs who are over six weeks of age and weigh at least two pounds. Additionally, it’s not recommended for dogs who are pregnant or nursing, as the safety of sentinel in these situations has not been established.
Overall, when used properly, sentinel is a safe and effective medication for dogs that can help prevent a variety of parasitic infections.
How to Administer Sentinel
Administering sentinel is easy – simply give your dog one tablet once a month with a full meal. It’s important to give sentinel with food, as this helps to ensure proper absorption of the medication. You should also be sure to give sentinel at the same time each month to maintain its effectiveness.
If you miss a dose of sentinel, don’t panic. Simply give your dog the missed dose as soon as you remember, then resume your regular dosing schedule. However, if it’s been more than two months since your dog’s last dose of sentinel, you’ll need to consult with your veterinarian before resuming treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sentinel is a safe and effective medication for dogs when used as directed by a veterinarian. While there are potential side effects associated with this medication, they are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days. By administering sentinel once a month with a full meal, you can help protect your furry friend from heartworm disease, fleas, and other parasitic infections. So go ahead and give your pup some sentinel – they’ll thank you for it!
