How long does Bravecto last for dogs for tick protection? - briefly
A single oral dose of Bravecto protects dogs against ticks for up to 12 weeks. Efficacy remains consistent throughout the three‑month interval when given at the recommended dosage.
How long does Bravecto last for dogs for tick protection? - in detail
Bravecto is administered as a chewable tablet that delivers systemic protection against ticks for a period of approximately 12 weeks (84 days) after a single dose. The active ingredient, fluralaner, reaches therapeutic blood concentrations within 2 hours, and kills attached ticks within 8 hours of attachment. Efficacy has been demonstrated against the most common species affecting dogs, including Ixodes scapularis, Dermacentor variabilis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and Amblyomma americanum.
Key factors influencing the protection window:
- Weight‑based dosing – tablets are formulated for specific weight ranges; correct dosage ensures the full 12‑week interval.
- Health status – dogs with severe hepatic or renal disease may metabolize the drug differently, potentially shortening effectiveness.
- Infestation intensity – extremely heavy tick loads can overwhelm the initial kill rate, but the drug continues to act throughout the dosing interval.
- Resistance patterns – current surveillance shows no significant resistance in North America, but emerging data should be monitored.
Re‑administration is recommended every 12 weeks to maintain uninterrupted coverage. If a dog misses a scheduled dose, the next dose should be given as soon as possible; the protection period will reset from that administration date.
Safety profile: the product is approved for dogs 6 months of age or older and weighing at least 4.4 lb (2 kg). Adverse events are rare and typically limited to mild gastrointestinal upset. Concurrent use of other ectoparasitic products is not advised without veterinary approval.
In practice, veterinarians calculate the dosing schedule based on the dog’s weight, health condition, and local tick prevalence, ensuring the 84‑day protection span is consistently achieved.