We are moving from Northern NY to Cape Coral in 3 months. My Dane/Lab mix is 5 yrs old, I have used K9 Advantix II as a 6-mo coverage for him. What do you recommend I start him on to prepare him for the year-round coverage he will need and is there other “Florida” coverage I should give him (other than flea and tick)

Thanks for your question.  Here in Florida we love our warm weather, unfortunately parasites love it too!  The main groups of parasites that your canine companion needs to be protected against are heartworms, gastrointestinal parasites, and external parasites (primarily fleas but also ticks in some areas)

Year-round prevention for all of these groups is critical.  Flea infestations are very common and they are much easier to prevent then they are to treat once they get going.  There is not a single product that is effective against all parasites and a conversation with your vet is the best way to determine the most appropriate products for your pet’s lifestyle.  The most effective combination for our canine patients is Sentinel and Comfortis. This provides excellent protection against heartworms, multiple gastrointestinal worms (hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms) as well as targeting two stages of the flea life cycle for effective flea control.

If ticks are a problem in your area alternate medications would be required.  For more information you can call me directly at 813 885 4477, Dr. Peter Helmer