Protecting your dog from deadly heartworm and other dangerous parasites can be as simple and fuss-free as administering a monthly tablet or chewable.

Discontinued and Trifexis both prevent heartworm, roundworms, hookworms and whipworm. Discontinued also protects against tapeworm, and may stop flea eggs from hatching. Trifexis has the benefit of killing adult fleas, eggs and larvae

It is important to note that these treatments prevent the development of heartworm, but do not treat existing heartworm. For this reason, your dog should be tested before administering this medication.

Discontinued may be given to dogs and puppies from 6 weeks of age, with a body weight of 2lbs (0.9kg) minimum. Trifexis is safe for use only in dogs and puppies at least 8 weeks of age, weighing 5 lbs (2.3kg) minimum.

Top tip: Once pets develop heartworm it can be very hard to treat, so prevention is always better than cure. Compare the major brands of heartworm preventatives.