If your dog had to choose a parasite prevention treatment, it would probably pick the one that involves fewer treatments and less fuss. And honestly, we all would agree too. That’s where Advantage Multi (Advocate) for Dogs comes into the conversation.
Advantage Multi is a topical treatment that offers protection against various internal and external parasites in one application. This means no forceful dosing of the pills and no fuss of administering separate products every month.
But is Advantage Multi right for every dog? How is it used, what does it actually protect against, and what should you know before applying it to your pup? Let’s break it down.
Advantage Multi for Dogs: Overview & Uses
Advantage Multi for Dogs is a topical parasite preventive for dogs and puppies at least 7 weeks old and weighing at least 3 lbs. It offers monthly protection against common dog parasites with one convenient topical dose:
- Helps prevent heartworm disease
- Kills adult fleas and prevents flea infestations
- Treats and controls hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms
- Treats and controls sarcoptic mange, ear mites, lice, and generalized demodicosis
The formulation features two active ingredients: imidacloprid and moxidectin. Imidacloprid targets fleas, while moxidectin provides heartworm prevention and helps control several intestinal worms.
Benefits of Advantage Multi for Dogs
Some of the top benefits of Advantage Multi for Dogs include:
- Convenient topical application: Advantage Multi is a topical flea and worming treatment, which makes it perfect for dogs who dislike taking chewables or tablets.
- Broad-spectrum protection: Instead of juggling several parasite treatments, Advantage Multi covers multiple parasites with one monthly topical treatment.
- Kills fleas through contact: It also kills fleas through contact, meaning fleas don’t have to bite your dog to be killed. That can be particularly useful for dogs that struggle with flea infestations or flea-related skin irritation.
- Monthly administration: A single application offers protection for up to a month. Also, having a simple monthly routine can help pet parents stay on track.
Advantage Multi for Dogs: Dosage & Administration
Advocate for Dogs is available in four different strengths in color-coded packs. You can choose an appropriate pack based on your dog’s current weight.
For application, follow these steps:
- Remove one dose applicator tube from the package.
- While holding the tube in an upright position, twist the cap to break the seal and then remove the cap from the tube.
- Part the hair until you can see the skin and apply the contents directly to the skin.
- Dogs weighing 20 lbs or less receive the entire contents at one spot between the shoulder blades.
- For dogs over 20 lbs, the product is applied to three or four spots along the back where the dog cannot easily lick it.
Advantage Multi for Dogs – Safety & Precautions
When used according to the prescription label, Advantage Multi has an established safety profile, but it still deserves careful handling.
Never give it by mouth. Also, never use Advantage Multi for Dogs on a cat. Dogs should generally be tested for existing heartworm infection before starting heartworm prevention. Use it with caution in sick, debilitated, or underweight dogs, and the safety of the product has not been established in pregnant or lactating dogs.
Bathing matters, too. You should avoid bathing your dog and prevent them from swimming for approximately two days after treatment. If bathing is necessary, bathe your dog before applying this product, and allow your dog’s coat to completely dry before application. Use a soap-free shampoo when bathing between treatments.
If your dog experiences any side effects like lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea after application, contact your veterinarian promptly.
Final Thoughts
Advantage Multi is a convenient option for pet parents looking for monthly protection against fleas, heartworm, intestinal worms, ear mites, lice, and sarcoptic mange in one topical product. Just apply the Advantage Multi spot-on to your dog’s skin as per the guidelines, and enjoy the peace of mind knowing your dog is protected from dangerous parasites. And as with any other product, consult a veterinarian to ensure Advantage Multi is the right choice of pet parasite protection before commencing the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Advantage Multi on puppies?
Yes. It is labeled for puppies at least 7 weeks old and weighing at least 3 pounds.
2. Does Advantage Multi protect against ticks?
No. Tick protection is not among the product’s labeled indications, so your veterinarian may recommend a separate tick preventive if your dog needs one.
3. Can I use Advantage Multi for Dogs on my cat?
No. The dog product should not be used on cats. Cats require a product specifically labeled for them.
4. What should I do if I miss a monthly Advantage Multi dose?
The manufacturer advises treating immediately if a dose is missed and then resuming the monthly schedule. Consult your veterinarian once, as they can suggest if you need to take any additional steps, depending on the gap between doses.
