Michael “Dr. T” Tokiwa, owner of Progressive Veterinary Care in Skillman, New Jersey, has nearly a quarter century of experience in small animal medicine. A self-proclaimed skeptic, Dr. T hesitated to try NexGard PLUS chews, One-and-Done monthly protection.
When Dr. T evaluated the research, talked to colleagues, and saw how the convenience and efficacy of NexGard PLUS chews could play a role in improving compliance, he chose NexGard PLUS chews as his primary canine parasiticide. We sat down with Dr. Tokiwa to discuss his choice.
Q: Dr. Tokiwa, can you tell us about yourself and your practice?
A: I purchased a local hospital in 2005, moved the facility and named it after my business, Progressive Veterinary Care. Our two-doctor practice offers preventive care, diagnostics and surgeries, and we collaborate with a boarded cardiologist and surgeon. We are team-oriented and have a family-like environment with advanced medical capabilities.
Q: What drew you to the veterinary profession?
A: My father was a phenomenal lawyer and a role model because he made a difference every day. I was studying human neuroscience when he passed away, and at that time I reflected on my path and decided to do something that not only made a difference but was also an innate calling for me. I decided to follow my gut and study veterinary medicine.
Q: What is your favorite part about being a veterinarian, and what has been the most challenging?
A: I love cultivating relationships, building trust with the team and clients and seeing how that positively impacts care. I’m now seeing the second and third generation of pets for some clients, and it’s wonderful to consider myself part of those families. I also love mentoring, teaching and connecting people, and the little moments of joy each day.
Veterinary medicine is rewarding, but also incredibly demanding. Team dynamics and staffing are huge problems, and passionate professionals can feel emotionally distressed and underappreciated. It’s a challenge every day, but each day is also an opportunity to make a difference. I tell my team, let’s save some lives today!
Q: What’s your parasiticide philosophy and how does that impact your patients?
A: I take this topic seriously, and I think veterinarians have to be serious about the products in their clinics. My concerns are safety, ease of use and effectiveness. For which ages, sizes and breeds of dogs is it proven safe? Does it truly protect pets against fleas, ticks, heartworm disease and intestinal parasites? Choosing the right parasiticide means selecting a product that works, aligns with our core values and offers comprehensive protection.
Q: Why did you choose NexGard® PLUS (afoxolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel chewable tablets) for your canine patients?
A: I talked to colleagues, looked at the research and found that NexGard PLUS chews checked all the boxes. We’re talking not only about parasite protection, but also convenience, safety, health and owner satisfaction. Every product that we use has to be one we would use for our own pets. Coverage, safety profile, manufacturer support and trust and transparency were key factors in my choice. I want to ensure we’re covering the biggest preventable threats to pet health with something with a proven track record.
Q: How do you improve parasiticide compliance among canine pet owners?
A: It’s a combination of education, early prevention and offering practical solutions that resonate with pet owners. I start early with puppies by educating clients about heartworm disease and tick protection on their first visit. Then, it’s a simple transition to say, “These are NexGard PLUS chews. It’s an all-in-one, monthly chewable solution that dogs love and it addresses everything we need.”
Q: How does Boehringer Ingelheim support your team and your mission to protect pets?
A: I’m very fortunate and grateful to have the best company representative—she’s phenomenal. The free starter doses are no-brainers for clients, and I feel comfortable knowing my patients are protected. Greenline® offering rebates on 6- and 12-month product supplies has been huge for clients, and the educational resources have been invaluable for my team. We haven’t used the satisfaction guarantee, but knowing they’ll back us is comforting and gives me a lot of confidence about the product.
Q: Do you have any final thoughts to share with other veterinarians considering NexGard PLUS chews for their canine patients?
A: Boehringer Ingelheim is committed to the veterinary profession, and I don’t think anything matches that. With NexGard PLUS chews, you’re getting a highly effective, all-in-one parasite protection solution and partnering with someone who genuinely cares about the success of your practice and the well-being of your patients.
Are NexGard PLUS chews right for your canine patients? Visit NexGardPLUSClinic.com or contact your local Boehringer Ingelheim representative to learn more.
*Dr. Tokiwa was compensated for his participation and the thoughts and opinions expressed are his own.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: NexGard® PLUS is for use in dogs only. The most frequently reported adverse reactions reported in clinical trials were diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and itching. NexGard PLUS contains afoxolaner, a member of the isoxazoline class, which has been associated with neurologic adverse reactions including tremors, ataxia, and seizures in dogs with or without a history of seizures. Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders.
NexGard PLUS chews are safe for puppies at 8 weeks, weighing 4 pounds or more. The safe use of NexGard PLUS has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Dogs should be tested for existing heartworm infection prior to starting a heartworm disease preventive. For more information, see full prescribing information or visit NexGardPLUSClinic.com.
NexGard® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health France, used under license.
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