i believe it depends on breed- something about collies that have reactions
Yea, they use it on dogs for sarcoptic mange, ear mites, lice, lots of stuff. Ivomec is the ingredient in Heartguard heartworm preventative. Literally a single drop of straight Ivomec is more than what's in a Heartguard tablet and that prevents heartworms when given monthly.
Thanks everyone for the information, I think I will call my vet and see what they say, my dogs are little Chihuahua's. Since they are so small, i think i will take percautions by calling the vet.. Thanks again.Yes, but use it with caution there are a few breeds that have very bad reactions to Ivermectins. A quick google search gives me this article from petmd.
Ivermectin Toxicity in Dogs
This toxic reaction occurs especially in dogs that are genetically hypersensitive to ivermectin, an anti-parasite medication most commonly used for heartworm prevention, or to treat ear and hair mites, which can lead to mange. Ivermectin prevents or kills parasites by causing neurological damage to the parasite, resulting in paralysis and death for the parasite. But dogs genetically sensitive to the medication have an anomaly that allows the ivermectin to pass the dog's blood-brain barrier and into its central nervous system, which can be lethal for the animal.
While the sensitivity to this type of medication is not always guaranteed, the following breeds are most likely to be affected:
- Old English Sheepdog
- English Sheepdog
- Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
- Australian Shepherd
- German Shepherd
- Long-haired Whippet
- Silken Windhound
- Skye Terrier
- Collie
It is also seen in mixed-breed dogs, older dogs that have experienced a blow to the head, puppies, and dogs that have overdosed on similar types of drugs. Treating dogs that are susceptible to ivermectin toxicity with parasitic medication should be only be done under a veterinarian's supervision and with great caution.
Symptoms
Symptoms for the dog may be acute or mild. Acute signs will become apparent within 4 to 12 hours of the drug's administration. In mild cases, symptoms will occur between 48 to 96 hours after your dog has been treated. Such symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Dilation of the pupil
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Difficulty controlling voluntary movement
- Disorientation
- Tremors/Seizures
- Inability to stand
- Blindness
- Slow heartbeat
- Respiratory distress
- Coma
You might want to ask your vet about doing this before you bring in your dog as an emergency 'train wreck' and ask if the vet can help you after the fact.
I worked for a vet back before this research was well understood and it's not pretty...but everyone makes the choices they see fit for their own animals.