Heartworm Prevention

Only Natural Pet HW Protect Herbal Formula (4 oz.)

This herbal formula is designed to help prevent heartworms using extracts of herbs well known for their anti-parasitic properties, and others well known for their mosquito repelling properties (heartworm is transmitted by mosquitoes). These herbs are formulated to help eliminate existing larvae-stage parasites in the blood stream and prevent them from entering the blood through reducing the chances of mosquito bites.

Chemical heartworm preventatives work by continual administration of a low dose of insecticide to kill any developing microfilariae in the animal’s bloodstream. Herbal preventatives work in a similar fashion, only using herbs instead of pesticides. Neither method kills adult heartworms - which is why regular testing for heartworm, at least every six months, is absolutely necessary regardless of what method you choose for prevention.

This formula is designed as a preventative to be used during the mosquito season as part of a comprehensive heartworm control program. If your pet already has heartworms, then we would suggest our HeartWorm Free product. If your pet has heartworm disease, then you should consult a veterinarian and follow a traditional heartworm disease treatment program.

Using an insect repellent like Only Natural Pet Herbal Defense Spray may also help prevent heartworms by keeping mosquitos away from your pet when they are outside.

As with all herbal remedies and treatments, the healthier the animal overall, the more effective the treatment will be. Provide your companion with the best diet along with proper supplements for optimal health, and this will go a long way to preventing disease and making them less appealing and susceptible to parasites.

Heartworm disease (adult heartworm infestation in the heart and lungs) is a very serious health concern and treatment for heartworm disease should always be guided by a veterinarian.

New Improved Formula! In our new formula, the herbs are distilled in alcohol instead of glycerin, which is generally considered to preserve more of the beneficial nutrients of the herbs. And because alcohol is not sweet like glycerin, we've added agave nectar (a natural sweetener) to the formula to make it more palatable for dogs (and cats).

Following is a list of the herbs in this formula and the properties for which they were selected. The term "may" is used because although these properties are what the herbs are known for in the field of herbology, these statements have not been recognized or approved by the FDA.

• Wormwood Herb - May help eliminate microfilaria and developmental stage heartworm parasites and in the blood stream, and may help create an unfavorable environment for parasites.
• Papaya Leaf - Contains enzymes (papain), which may digest parasite worms in the intestines.
• Wormseed Herb - Well known as an anti-parasite herb.
• Male Fern Rhizome - May be effective in helping to control blood parasites.
• Sarsaparilla Root - May be a useful blood purifier.
• Black Walnut Leaves - May help support the body's defenses against parasites and help eliminate larvae stage parasites. It is also popular for its cleansing properties.
• Ginger Root - May work against blood flukes and may help relieve inflammation.
• Oat, Green Tops Dry - A source of vegetable fiber.
• Parsley Root - May help to remove waste materials and act as an insect repellent.

Dosage:

Three times per day during the mosquito season. One drop per two pounds of body weight up to 50 pounds, thereafter one drop per four pounds. May be mixed with food, applied with dropper or syringe directly into mouth, or mixed with 1/2 cup of warm water.

Please Note:

Individual animals respond to herbal remedies differently, and effectiveness is influenced by the overall health of the animal, their diet, and environmental and other factors. An herbal approach to heartworm prevention is not like a traditional heartworm pharmaceutical preventative, which chemically kills all heartworm larvae, but it may be an effective and more natural method to prevent heartworm infection. Consistent dosing is essential for proper protection along with heartworm testing at least every six months.

Contraindications:

This formula is not for use in pregnant or lactating females, animals with kidney or liver disease, or those with seizure disorders.