{"id":4902,"date":"2022-08-08T13:17:03","date_gmt":"2022-08-08T13:17:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/petbrilliant.com\/?p=4902"},"modified":"2022-08-08T13:19:23","modified_gmt":"2022-08-08T13:19:23","slug":"is-nexgard-safe-for-australian-shepherds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/petbrilliant.com\/is-nexgard-safe-for-australian-shepherds\/","title":{"rendered":"Is NexGard Safe For Australian Shepherds?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If your Australian shepherd is MDR1-positive, then you may be wondering is NexGard safe for her. You also may want to know which heartworm medications are safe for Australians. This article will answer all of these questions. Keep reading to learn more! The active ingredient in NexGard is afoxolaner. This substance is often used to treat heartworm, flea, and tick infestations. It is effective in preventing these infestations, and may prevent the development of Lyme disease.<\/p>\n
If your dog has a genetic mutation called MDR1, NexGard may not be safe for your Aussie. These dogs are more susceptible to certain drugs that cause neurological illness<\/a> and sometimes even death. Fortunately, the genetic mutation can be detected via a DNA test. All you need is a cheek swab, and the results will show you what genotype your dog has and what form of the MDR1 gene they have.<\/p>\n A dog with the MDR1 mutation will react to certain drugs in the same way as any other dog. It can be fatal if it receives a drug that can trigger seizures. Although veterinarians know about the mutation, they don’t recommend removing dogs with it from the breeding<\/a> pool. If your dog is affected by this mutation, you should check your dog’s pedigree to determine whether he should be tested. If you don’t know the status of your dog<\/a>, you can find information on OFA’s website.<\/p>\n A test for the MDR1 mutation is inexpensive and easy to obtain. WSU Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Lab recommends testing mixed breed dogs<\/a> for this mutation. If your dog tests positive for MDR1, NexGard may still be safe for Australian shepherds<\/a>. This drug is generally safe for Australian shepherds and other dogs with MDR1 mutation, but higher doses of NexGard may result in an adverse reaction.<\/p>\n The newer NSAID Grapiprant is touted as more effective against heartworm in dogs with the ABCB1 mutation. It works by blocking P-glycoprotein transport, which prevents certain drugs from passing into the brain and affecting the dog’s central nervous system. Combined with NexGard, Grapiprant is ineffective in treating Australian shepherds with MDR1 dogs.<\/p>\n Some of the drugs that are known to be harmful to dogs<\/a> with MDR1 mutation are acepromazine, butorphanol, and ivermectin. Because of this, the drugs can accumulate in the brain, causing toxicity to the dog. While NexGard does not affect MDR1 dogs, it can be harmful for Aussies with white feet.<\/p>\n Using a product with the MDR1 mutation does not mean your dog is safe from all flea and tick treatments. There are a few safe products available for dogs with the mutation, including Milbemax and Interceptor Spectrum. While the products are effective at preventing parasites, your dog should still be monitored for side effects, including vomiting and diarrhea. If you’re concerned about your dog’s sensitivity to a specific medicine, consider asking a veterinarian to give your MDR1-affected dog<\/a> a trial of the product.<\/p>\n It’s important to inform your vet that your dog has the MDR1 mutation if you plan to breed your dog. You can obtain an MDR1 test from Washington State University, which is located in the United States. In Europe, you can contact Genetic Counseling Services, which is located in the Netherlands. If you’re living in Australia, Gribbles Veterinary Services will be able to perform the test.<\/p>\n Flea and tick control products are generally safe when used as directed. Some products can be ingested, and you’ll need to be extra careful when administering a topical product to your dog. Always read the label to be safe. It’s best to apply a spot-on flea treatment between your dog’s neck and shoulders, and not past them. If your dog has MDR1, he’s likely to lick his tongue.<\/p>\n If your dog has a mutated MDR1 gene, you’ll need to avoid certain drugs, such as those listed below. Your veterinarian will be able to determine which drug is safe for him and which ones are not. You can also ask your veterinarian to order a MDR1 test. The results of this test will indicate your dog’s status, and your veterinarian can choose which medicine is right for him.<\/p>\nWhat flea and tick medicine is safe for MDR1 dogs<\/h2>\n