Flea and Tick Control for Dogs
Regardless of how clean you keep your house and dog, your home and pets are at risk for a flea and tick infestation. Learn what to do before you have to get rid of the little buggers. It's a lot nicer to prevent fleas than it is to remove them.
Remember
* Pesticides and repellents, both chemical and natural, have been known to be harmful. Read the label very well before purchasing a flea collar or spray, consult your vet, and monitor your dog after use.
* Ask your vet about adding garlic and yeast or apple cider vinegar to your dog's diet to make your dog less tasty to finicky fleas.
* Read the FDA's
Fighting Fleas and Ticks.
* It's impossible to outline the differences between all brands and their products right here. Once you decide which methods you're going to use, talk to your vet, and read
Doctors Foster & Smith's charts comparing the relevant products.
What Are These Ingredients?
* '''Permethrin/Pyrethrin''' is a the strongest adulticide (adult ''flea and tick'' killer, not humans).
** Very good for most dogs, although some have dangerous reactions.
** Do not use for
cats.
* '''Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs)''' keep larvae from maturing into reproductive adult pests. These keep the infestation cycle to a single, 3 week-long generation.
* '''Natural'' repellents shy away from dangerous chemicals.'''''
Preventative Care
Use these precautions from the time your dog is but a pup and look forward to a life together of itchsafe, though.
Collars
Household and Lawn Sprays
Monthly Treatments
Dealing with the Problem
Anti-Itch Treatments
Combs
Shampoos and Sprays
