How do I choose the safest flea treatment for dogs?
When it comes to choosing the safest flea treatment for dogs, you’ll want to pick a product that will provide effective flea protection but with as little risk to the health of your dog as possible. Fleas are a serious nuisance to your dog, causing itching and all-around misery.
Do you need a prescription for flea treatment for dogs?
Many of the safest and most effective options require a veterinarian’s prescription, so it makes sense to have this discussion sooner rather than later. Veterinarians typically recommend dog flea and tick collars, topical flea and tick treatments, or oral flea and tick medications (sometimes in combination) to fully protect their patients.
How do you get rid of fleas on a puppy?
The best way to deal with fleas is prevention. Flea and tick preventatives kill fleas that come in contact with your dog, preventing your pup from bringing them home in the first place. There are several options out there, from flea collars to topical liquid applicants and pills.
Where is the best place to put flea treatment on dogs?
Choose a spot on the back of your dog's neck, ideally by the base of the skull. Part your dog's fur so you can see their skin and apply a small blob directly to the skin. If you have a large dog, consider applying two small blobs, about a centimetre apart.
Does it matter where you put flea treatment on a dog?
Shoulder to shoulder It is best to apply the spot on in two places if you can; this increases the skin surface area being treated, which in turn speeds up absorption. And for smaller dogs and cats there can sometimes simply be too much fluid to apply in a single spot.
Where do you put flea medicine?
0:221:08How to Apply Flea & Tick Topical Treatments - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipDown part the hair behind the neck and applied the full dosage directly onto the skin and not theMoreDown part the hair behind the neck and applied the full dosage directly onto the skin and not the coat.
Where do I apply Frontline to my dog?
0:120:47How to Use Frontline Plus for Dogs - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOpen the applicator. Hold it upright and snap the tip away from your own face and body then applyMoreOpen the applicator. Hold it upright and snap the tip away from your own face and body then apply frontline plus to your pets skin between the shoulder blades.
Does it matter if flea treatment goes on fur?
When you apply the flea medication, it's essential to completely part the pet's hair so that the medication can be applied directly to the skin. If you have a pet with thick fur, this can present a challenge.
Why do you put frontline between the shoulder blades?
0:291:16How to Use Frontline for Dogs - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd so you cannot bathe usually 3 to 4 days before or after applying the product. What you do is youMoreAnd so you cannot bathe usually 3 to 4 days before or after applying the product. What you do is you take the vial. And you spread the hair back right over the shoulder blades.
Why do you put flea treatment on the back of the neck?
The reason you apply it to the back of their neck is to prevent them itching it away, this is important for its even distribution. Use the recommended dose on each dog, don't share pipettes if you have more than one dog. Wait 24 hours before bathing your dog to ensure the solution is distributed properly.
What if frontline gets on fur?
Don't worry, it will eventually work its way down to the skin. For future applications, use the applicator tip to part the hair until you see skin then squeeze to apply the Frontline. You can reapply in 2-3 weeks but this would be considered "off label use". Check with your vet before you do that.
How long does it take for flea medicine to dry?
You can usually cuddle and pet your cat immediately after receiving an oral flea prevention medication. Topical products can take a few hours to soak into the skin layer. Avoid petting your cat for 24-48 hours in the spot where you applied a topical medication.
Can my dog sleep with me after frontline?
Can I handle or stroke my pet after applying FRONTLINE Plus® / FRONTLINE Tri-Act® / FRONTLINE® Spot On? You can handle, stroke and cuddle your pet as usual as soon as the application site is dry. In the meantime treated animals should not be handled and children should not be allowed to play or sleep with them.
Can I put Frontline on my dog after a bath?
FRONTLINE PLUS is water-fast. It is OK to bathe your pet before using FRONTLINE PLUS, but the coat should be completely dry prior to application. In the 48 hours immediately after treatment, do not bath, shampoo or let your dog go swimming.
How do you apply Frontline Plus to a large dog?
0:481:52How to Apply Frontline Plus for Dogs: Flea Control - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSimply open and remove the plastic applicator. Hold it upright with the foil side toward you andMoreSimply open and remove the plastic applicator. Hold it upright with the foil side toward you and snap the tip. Next you'll want to part your dog's hair between the shoulder blades.
Why do you put flea treatment on the back of the neck?
The reason you apply it to the back of their neck is to prevent them itching it away, this is important for its even distribution. Use the recommended dose on each dog, don't share pipettes if you have more than one dog. Wait 24 hours before bathing your dog to ensure the solution is distributed properly.
Why does my dog keep getting fleas even after treatment?
Not treating often enough Fleas go through a life cycle of egg, larvae, pupae and adult. Most flea treatments just kill adult fleas, but fleas can continue to emerge for months after you think an infestation has ended. When a newly emerged female flea finds a host, she can lay eggs within one day.
How long does it take for spot on flea treatment to work?
However, fleas are killed after contact with your treated pet: within 24 hours for FRONTLINE Plus® and FRONTLINE® Spot On and within 6 hours for FRONTLINE Tri-Act®.
How long will I see fleas after treatment?
As eggs hatch and develop, you might find fleas reappearing 10-14 days after treatment - this is quite normal and provided the insecticide remains in place it will kill them. This is why it is important not to carry out cleaning which might remove insecticide.
How can I tell if my dog has fleas or ticks?
Excessive itching and licking may indicate a flea infestation. Thoroughly investigate your dog’s skin and coat if you suspect fleas. White spots ca...
Is it better to get a prescription treatment or an over-the-counter one?
Provided you seek out quality and trusted active ingredients, over-the-counter medications provide worthy protection and treatment. There are many...
How do I remove a tick?
If you spot a tick on your dog (or yourself), don’t panic. It’s fairly easy to remove one on your own without having to see a vet. Grab a pair of t...
What is the best flea treatment for dogs?
So, what's the best flea treatment for dogs? 1. Flea and Tick Collars. Believe it or not, prevention can be as simple as putting a collar on your dog.
What is the best chew for fleas?
If your pup is suffering from a flea infestation, try a soft chew that’s similar to a treat. Advantus Soft Chews for Small Dogs and Advantus Soft Chews for Large Dogs are made with imidacloprid, an insect neurotoxin that works to paralyze and kill fleas within one hour of treatment.
What is the best flea collar for a puppy?
The Seresto 8 Month Flea & Tick Collar is a veterinarian-recommended flea collar that comes in two options. The Seresto 8 Month Flea & Tick Collar for Large Dogs and the Seresto 8 Month Flea & Tick Collar for Small Dogs are both safe for puppies and dogs that are 7 weeks and older. These collars will work start killing off any fleas on your dog ...
How long does it take for a flea collar to work?
These collars will work start killing off any fleas on your dog within the first 24 hours. Summer and swimming go hand and hand, so you may be hesitant to get a flea collar if your dog loves to cool off in the water.
How long does it take for K9 Advantix to work?
It easily treats and kills any fleas and ticks that may come your dog's way. K9 Advantix for dogs starts working within 12 hours and will kill all stages of fleas, which will prevent a reinfestation.
How to make a dog collar work?
The collar works by rubbing on skin, so if you have a long-haired dog, trim the hair around the neck to help the collar work best. 2.
Is it safe to keep a dog indoors with fleas?
By Lindsay Schencker. Now more than ever is the time to be proactive about pest prevention. Flea and tick season is at its peak in summertime, so you’ll want to ensure your dog stays safe. It's important to keep in mind that your pet can also be affected by fleas and ticks indoors.
What is the best treatment for fleas?
Flea pills are just one option for flea treatment and prevention. Topical applications, flea collars, flea shampoos, and environmental insecticides are also options to help you deal with a flea infestation.
How long does flea medicine stay in dogs system?
If you are looking for an oral monthly preventative, then a fast-acting flea pill that only stays in your dog’s system for a few days is probably not your best bet. On the other hand, if your dog is suffering from flea allergy dermatitis, then a fast-acting flea adulticide is exactly what you need.
Can I order flea pills for dogs?
Your veterinarian is your best source for discovering which flea pill will be most effective against a resistant flea population. It is possible to order some flea pills for dogs online or from a pet store without a veterinarian, but many of these pills do require a prescription.
Can flea pills be used on dogs?
You’ve probably heard someone in your life mention flea pills for dogs. These pills can be a very effective method for getting rid of fleas on dogs, and there are more options available today than ever before. Here is what you need to know about flea pills to help you choose the best option for your dog.
Can a dog have fleas while pregnant?
Pre-existing medical conditions, your dog’s age, and whether or not she is pregnant can also help determine the right flea product for your dog. In some cases, a fast-acting flea pill that kills fleas within a few hours can be part of a treatment plan for flea allergy dermatitis.
Can fleas be on dogs?
parasites. The flea circus your grandfather told you about was cute. Fleas on your dog are not . If your home feels like it is turning into your very own flea circus, you definitely need to take some action. You’ve probably heard someone in your life mention flea pills for dogs. These pills can be a very effective method for getting rid ...
Do you have to treat your home for fleas?
In most cases of flea infestations, you will also have to treat your home and yard for fleas, along with any other pets in the household, and you will need to stay on top of your flea and tick preventative schedule in order for it to remain effective.
What is the best flea treatment for dogs?
Last up on our list of the best flea treatments for dogs is Advecta II Flea Treatment. This product is specially formulated to effectively break the life cycle of fleas. In other words, it is made to kill fleas during all stages of their life cycle, including eggs, larvae, and adults.
How long does flea treatment last on dogs?
In addition to treating fleas, this product also treats, prevents, and controls lice infestations. To use it, simply apply the flea treatment onto your dog’s back, between his shoulder blades, and it will start working within 12 hours and keep working for 30 days.
How long does it take for a flea and tick treatment to work?
And, it starts working within 24 hours after it is applied and provides the same long lasting coverage that other products offer (30 days). Features.
How long does it take for fleas to work on dogs?
Most of the top rated flea treatments for dogs start working within 24 hours of application; though many start working within just a few hours.
What is Frontline Plus for dogs?
For more than 20 years, veterinarians and pet owners have been using Frontline Plus for Dogs to effectively prevent, treat, and control fleas. This product is designed to break the life cycle of fleas, as well as ticks and lice.
Does flea treatment help dogs?
Treats other pests, too. In addition to treating fleas, high quality flea and tick treatments for dogs will also combat other pests, like ticks and lice. Summing It Up. There is nothing worse than discovering that your furry friend has been infested by fleas.
Does vest kill fleas?
It’s one of the top flea treatments that are recommended by vests. This product is designed to combat fleas at multiple stages of life; one of the ingredients kills adult fleas, and another kills eggs and larvae, preventing them from developing.
Choosing the safest flea treatment for dogs
To choose the safest flea treatment for dogs, you’ll first need to consider the type of flea treatment that best fits your dog’s needs and lifestyle. Flea treatments are available as collars, oral tablets or chews, and topical spot-on treatments.
Flea collars for your dog
Many pet owners prefer to use collars as their flea treatment because this method is easy and mess-free. Some of the modern flea collar products even last as long as 8 months, so you won’t have to remember to administer your dog’s flea treatment on a regular basis – a great plus for many busy families!
Topical flea treatment for dogs
Topical flea treatments are often seen as a safe flea treatment for dogs because many types of this medication are not absorbed systemically, meaning they do not cross the dog’s skin barrier or get absorbed into the blood stream. This can be a safer option for dogs with a history of reactions to certain types of medications.
Oral flea treatment for dogs
Oral flea treatments are easy to administer and typically offer one or three months of protection per dose. These flea treatment medications are usually flavored so most dogs actually enjoy taking them!
Summary
The bottom line is that there are many safe and effective flea treatments available for your dog, and that is great news! You have many options to choose from depending on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences.
What is the best flea treatment for dogs?
Types of Safe Flea Treatments for Dogs. Veterinarians typically recommend dog flea and tick collars, topical flea and tick treatments , or oral flea and tick medications (sometimes in combination) to fully protect their patients. Here are a few of the safest flea treatments for dogs on the market today and some of their pros and cons.
How to treat fleas and ticks in dogs?
Keep in mind that no two pets are the same. Therefore, a product that’s commonly considered to be safe flea and tick prevention for dogs may be a great option for one animal and a mistake for another. Factors to consider include: 1 Age: Flea treatments must be age-appropriate; many are not made for young puppies. Look at the product’s label for this information. 2 Breed: Coat type may influence your decision. Thicker coats may be difficult for topical treatments. 3 Your pet’s health history: Other medications or supplements that you give, concurrent health conditions, and previous reactions to flea and tick preventatives should be taken into account. For example, neurologic problems have been seen in dogs when high doses of ivermectin (heartworm prevention ingredient) are given in conjunction with spinosad, a flea preventative ingredient. 4 Your pet’s lifestyle: The presence of children and other pets (especially cats) in the household and your pet’s daily activities/exposure to the outdoors are important details. 5 Where you live: Which parasites are common in your area? Is resistance to certain preventatives a concern?
What factors to consider when treating a puppy for fleas?
Factors to consider include: Age: Flea treatments must be age-appropriate; many are not made for young puppies. Look at the product’s label for this information. Breed: Coat type may influence your decision. Thicker coats may be difficult for topical treatments. Your pet’s health history: Other medications or supplements that you give, ...
Can flea and tick collars be used on cats?
As is the case with flea and tick collars, if you’re unable to keep your pet away from small children or animals who may come into direct contact with the medication before it has dried or absorbed into your pet’s skin, a topical treatment might not be the ideal solution. If you have cats in your home, you will want to talk to a veterinarian ...
Is a flea collar safe for dogs?
Under many circumstances, newer dog flea collars are safe options for flea and tick control (unlike older collars, which were largely ineffective). The Seresto collar is a very popular option right now. It uses flumethrin and imidacloprid to kill fleas at multiple stages of development as well as ticks. The collar’s effectiveness lasts ...
Does Frontline Plus work?
Frontline Plus is an OTC product that uses fipronil and (S)-methoprene to attack fleas and ticks at every life stage. It also eliminates chewing lice and helps to control sarcoptic mange infestations. While it shouldn’t be ingested, a few surreptitious licks by your dog won’t cause much in the way of problems.
Can you treat a dog with thick coats?
Thicker coats may be difficult for topical treatments. Your pet’s health history: Other medications or supplements that you give, concurrent health conditions, and previous reactions to flea and tick preventatives should be taken into account.
Signs of a Flea Infestation on Your Dog
You can see adult fleas with the naked eye, although it isn't always easy. But most of the time, you'll notice the symptoms of a flea infestation before you notice the fleas themselves.
7 Top Home Remedies for Fleas on Dogs
You've confirmed the presence of fleas on your dog, either by symptoms, the presence of flea dirt, visible fleas in your dog's coat, or all of the above. Now what?
When to See Your Veterinarian
If a flea infestation is severe or home remedies aren't working, it's time to visit the vet.
Flea Prevention Tips for Dog Owners
Just like any health problem, preventing fleas is better than dealing with them after the fact. Prevent a flea infestation in your dog by:
Home Remedies for Fleas on Dogs: What to Know
It's no fun when your dog has fleas. Before resorting to flea collars and other methods, you might want to try some natural home remedies. From apple cider vinegar, citrus baths, and coconut oil to pest-control methods for the home and/or yard like diatomaceous earth and nematodes, a variety of solutions might work for you.
