6 month heart worm shot?? good or bad??

[alishabarber]

My mom and I have both been using a 6 month heart worm shot for our boxers...done by our vets just so y'all know.... and then my sister tells me its been killing dogs and once recalled..... So Ive been concerned and probably won't ever use it again but wondering if any other vets are pushing this shot on yall too or if anyone has heard of this???

 

[Cami]

If you are talking about Proheart 6....
Yes, it was recalled a couple of years after being given FDA approval. It took about 3 years to receive over 5000 documented reactions to the drug. It was recalled and then showed up again about 2 years later.
Here is a link to client info from the manufacturer which has been revised since the original release. Note that it mentions "ask your vet about the RISK of administering with vaccinations".
https://animalhealth.pfizer.com/sites/pahweb/US/EN/Products/PublishingImages/Revised_PRO10226R.pdf

 

[alishabarber]

Yes that is the one!!

yes thats the one!!.... thats a little scary cause my vet never told me of any risks and I still consider myself a new pet owner. Zeus is my first dog and Im still learning all the things to do to keep him well. They made me feel like that was the only option to protect him against heart worms and now Im learning that there are monthly pills that are probably way more safe.

Ill still do some research so I know which one I will pick up after this six months is over. Any advice is welcomed thanks for the info!!

 

[brodieboxer]

Never heard of it - obviously, my vet doesn't use it.

 

[pghboxers]

There are risks to everything. The pill, the shot, topical applications of medications...you name it. Vets, in my opinion, do a pretty poor job in explaining the benefits vs risks of some things. I feel as though they just push meds and treatments, and a lot of times it is up to the consumer to do your research and ask appropriate questions to the vet.