Flea and Tick Prevention – Options, Pros and Cons

The number of options for flea and tick prevention these days can certainly be overwhelming.  Let’s dive into these preventatives as they are not all created equally.

1. Topical Treatments:

• Advantages: Topical treatments are easy to apply and provide long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks. They typically repel and kill fleas, ticks, and sometimes other pests like mosquitoes. Some brands claim to be waterproof.
• Disadvantages: They may leave a residue on the dog’s fur, and there is a potential for the product to be transferred to humans or other pets through direct contact. Cats are especially sensitive to these canine products, exposure almost never has a good outcome.
• No matter what the company claims, none are waterproof.  If your dog is in the water a lot, you will need to reapply every 2-3 weeks.
• My preference – K-9 Advantix II – best effectiveness and least side effects

2. Oral Medications:

• Advantages: Oral medications are convenient to administer and eliminate the need for topical applications. They are highly effective in killing fleas and ticks and can provide month-long protection. Some oral preventatives also target other parasites, like heartworms or intestinal worms.
• Disadvantages: Since they are ingested, some dogs may have difficulty swallowing or may experience mild gastrointestinal side effects. Prescription is required for certain oral medications.  We cannot use these in dogs who have a history of seizures.  They are safe for dogs without a history of seizures and do not cause seizures at the prescribed dosages.
• My preference – Credelio – faster kill time than Nexgard AND is safer than Simparica

3. Collars:

• Advantages: Flea and tick collars are easy to use and provide prolonged protection. Some collars offer additional benefits, such as repelling mosquitoes or killing flea larvae. They are also resistant to water, making them ideal for dogs that swim frequently.
• Disadvantages: The effectiveness of flea and tick collars may vary depending on the brand. Some collars can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some dogs. They may also have an odor or leave residue on the dog’s fur.
• Beware of off brands and counterfeits, they are dangerous.  NO HARTZ PRODUCTS!
• My preference – Seresto – safe and effective

4. Sprays:

• Advantages: Flea and tick sprays provide immediate relief by killing parasites upon contact. They are useful for treating localized infestations and can be applied to bedding, furniture, and other areas where fleas and ticks may be present.
• Disadvantages: Frequent application is often required since sprays have a shorter duration of effectiveness compared to other preventatives. Sprays may also have a strong odor and is extremely messy to apply.  Your dog literally needs to be saturated and dripping.
• My preference – do not use

5. Natural and Home Remedies:

• Advantages: Some pet owners prefer natural or home remedies to prevent fleas and ticks. These may include herbal sprays, essential oils, or homemade treatments. They are often seen as a safer alternative for dogs with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.
• Disadvantages: Natural remedies may not be as effective as commercial products, and their safety and efficacy can vary. It’s important to research and consult with a veterinarian before using any homemade or natural treatments.
• My preference – do not use

When choosing a flea and tick preventative for your dog, consider factors such as your dog’s health, lifestyle, any existing allergies, effectiveness against the specific parasites in your region, ease of use, and your personal preferences. It’s always advisable to consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable option for your dog. Consult with Dr. Nunez today at www.virtualvetcare.vet!

What are you using to protect your dog?  Would love to hear your thoughts!