Interceptor Spectrum for Dogs: A Pet Parent’s Guide

By Dr Eloise Bright 4 Min Read

Interceptor Spectrum is a delicious monthly chew for dogs to control heartworm and all intestinal worms.

WHAT IS IT?

Interceptor treats heartworm and intestinal parasites in dogs when given monthly. The internal parasites of concern in dogs are tapeworm, hookworm, roundworm , whipworm and heartworm. All can cause significant illness and disease in the later stages, but your dog may initially show no signs at all of infection. Some of these parasites are also transmissible to humans, so it is particularly important to treat your dog regularly for parasites if you have children.

Interceptor Spectrum is chicken flavoured and very easy to administer. It is safe to use from 2 weeks of age and is safe in breeding and lactating animals.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Interceptor has two active ingredients, praziquantel and milbemycin oxime. It is the praziquantel that kills tapeworm. Many top spot preparations do not contain an ingredient that kills tapeworm, so using a broad spectrum product like Interceptor ensures your pet is covered.

WHEN SHOULD YOU USE IT?

Any pet whether they are indoor or outdoor is at risk of heartworm and intestinal worms. Interceptor should be used every month from 2 weeks of age. Puppies should be treated every 2 weeks until 12 weeks of age, then monthly for the rest of their life.

If your dog is pregnant, use Interceptor at the time of mating, before giving birth and monthly throughout pregnancy and lactation. Treating the mother prior to birth reduces the risk of passing on parasites to the newborn puppies.

If your dog has not received a heartworm treatment for more than 60 days, please consult your Veterinarian to arrange a heartworm test. You can safely use interceptor so long as it has not been more than 6 months since your last heartworm preventative was given, but you will still need to get a heartworm test, as this product will not kill adult heartworms. If it has been less than 3 months since your last heartworm treatment, you can just restart interceptor without the need for a heartworm test, so long as you continue giving Interceptor for at least 2 months.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING SENTINEL SPECTRUM?

  • If your dog is 0-4 kg you need Interceptor Spectrum Orange
  • If your dog is 4-11 kg you need Interceptor Spectrum Green
  • If your dog is 11-22 kg you need Interceptor Spectrum Yellow
  • If your dog is 22-45kg you need Interceptor Spectrum Blue
  • If your dog is over 45kg, use a combination of the above for your dog’s weight.

When you purchase Interceptor Spectrum ensure the packaging is sealed and free from damage. Check the expiry date to ensure you have at least 6 months to use the product that remains in the box.

If your puppy is growing and is very close to 4kg in weight already, buy the larger size (green), to avoid wastage and under dosing. Interceptor Spectrum has been extensively tested and is safe even at 10 times the regular dose. Under dosing is likely to be ineffective and leave your dog vulnerable to parasite infestation.

WHERE CAN YOU BUY INTERCEPTOR SPECTRUM?

Sentinel Spectrum for Dogs can be purchased from vet clinics, pet shops or online, including the Love That Pet Store. The online prices for products are generally cheaper, however you will need to take into account the postage costs and return policies.

WHAT ELSE DO YOU NEED?

Because Interceptor Spectrum covers all internal parasites, you just need to treat your pet monthly for fleas with a product like Advantix or Frontline Plus. If you live in a paralysis tick area, use Frontline Plus or Advantix fortnightly.

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Dr Eloise is a Clinical Lead at Love That Pet and one of our resident pet care experts. She also curates the select range of vet recommended and approved products which feature on our site.
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