flea, tapeworms, meds

[geekygirl]

Hi all. I know this topic has come up time and time again.

Einstein was treated for tapeworms with 2 praziquental injections in February and now he has tapeworms again! I suspect that it's because we have fleas in our yard, and he always manages to escape back there when I open the kitchen door. So he licks his fur and eats those critters that happen to carry tapeworm eggs. I also suspect it's because he loves to lick poop and eat his own poop (a habit which I'm failing to break). The bad news is, Einstein (who is neutered) now has a wifey who is 4 months. More recently, both have been doing the butt scooting dance and itching themselves like crazy. I drop the wifey's stool sample off at the vet, and she has tapeworms. I have no doubt that Einstein has it too.

I have been reading several posts on this topic a while back and found them useful, ,except I can't remember the details that I need. There was one forum member who has been giving his yorkie tapeworm medication every month (oral antibiotic). I am interested in doing this because it seems more cost effective and also seems less painful for my poor Einstein, who will forever lick poop no matter what I do. Can someone please let me know what is a good monthly medicine to give for tapeworm prevention? Will I need a prescription for this? I am hesitant to ask my vet as she seems more interested in charging me for the injections.

Also, I think frontline plus isn't very effective as Einstein continues to get fleas despite the medication. I know that we have fleas in our yard, but I thought that frontline plus would prevent him from getting so infested? Should I switch to advantix? If so, how would I split a tube for advantix between 2 small dogs? What's the right dose? For example, 1 mililiter of frontline is sufficient for a 30 pound dog (so I give 1/10ml per 3 pounds)? What flea shampoo do you recommend? Besides for boric acid, what else can I do to rid the fleas in my yard? Should I also use boric acid inside the home? Is it reasonably safe for people and pets? I'm already bathing the dogs in dawn dishwashing liquid, vacuuming, and using frontline. I'm at my wits end!

I'm also using heartgard plus, which doesn't prevent tapeworms. I'd like to know what other great heartworm medications exist that does not require a prescription as my vet charges $60 plus dollar for a 6month supply for one dog and refuses to write me a prescription so I can get a more reasonably priced supply online.


Where's a reliable online site to purchase medicine? I've heard so many horror stories about ineffective or expired medicine purchased online.

I know that dogs are expensive to maintain, but I'd rather use the money to spoil them or donate to charity instead of spending it so lavishing on all of these injection meds or what not. I will provide for me dogs if need to, but I'd also like more affordable options if feasible. So any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

[Princes mom]

Purchasing Pet Drugs Online: Buyer Beware

All heartworm preventative meds require a perscription. Be very, very careful if you order online. Saving a dollar could be dangerous. If I were you, I would find a different vet...charging $60.00 for a six months supply is crazy! It's usually about $35.00.
I also have a thread about heartworm preventatives and I'm still waiting for responses. If your (new) vet suggests ivergard, make sure you are able to be home with him incase he has a severe reaction, like Prince did...severe vomiting, shaking and lethargy.