As our dogs grow older, we become more thoughtful about every health decision we make for them. Parasite prevention is no exception. Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance—they can transmit diseases that may be especially hard on aging pets.
Recently, a new option has become available: a once-yearly flea and tick injection. While the convenience can be appealing, it’s important for pet parents—especially those caring for senior dogs—to understand both the benefits and the considerations.
Veterinarians now have access to an injectable flea and tick medication called Bravecto Quantum, which can protect dogs for 8–12 months after a single dose administered at the veterinary clinic.
The medication contains fluralaner, a member of the isoxazoline class of parasite preventives. These medications work by disrupting the nervous system of fleas and ticks after they bite, helping eliminate parasites before they can establish an infestation.
For many families, the idea of one visit and a full year of protection is a welcome change from monthly reminders and treatments.
“With incidences of Lyme disease skyrocketing in Kent County, tick vigilance and compliance is critical for both humans and canines,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice. “As with every new medication, we don’t yet know how senior pets will react, and the risk with an annual injection is that you can’t undo it.”
Benefits of the Annual Option
- A yearly treatment can help ensure your dog stays protected without worrying about missed monthly doses.
- Fleas and ticks are active in many regions year-round. Continuous protection reduces the risk of infestations and tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease.
- Some dogs refuse pills or lick off topical products. An injection handled by the veterinary team removes that daily challenge.
Important Considerations for Senior Dogs
While many pets tolerate these medications well, there are a few things to discuss with your veterinarian.
- Medications in the isoxazoline family have been associated with rare neurologic effects such as tremors or seizures in susceptible pets.
- The long-acting nature of the medication means it cannot be removed if a reaction occurs.
- Older dogs may have underlying health conditions—such as liver, kidney, or neurologic issues—that should be considered when choosing any long-acting medication.
Choosing What’s Best for Your Dog
A thoughtful conversation with your veterinarian—considering your dog’s age, health history, lifestyle, and risk of exposure—can help you decide which prevention plan feels safest and most appropriate.
After all, protecting our pets from parasites is just one more way we help them stay comfortable, healthy, and enjoying their golden years by our side.
For the first time in the history of veterinary medicine, hospice and palliative medicine is on the path to becoming a board-certified specialty. Pet parents and veterinary professionals can help make that happen by learning more and engaging with the American Veterinary Medical Association’s feedback process.
If you have ever sat with an aging dog or cat and wondered, Are they comfortable? Is it time? Am I doing the right thing? — you already understand why what is happening right now in veterinary medicine matters.