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How To Spot Tick Paralysis In Dogs And How To Remove A Tick

As much as Brits welcome the summer weather, the warmer temperatures also bring seasonal bugs into our homes, gardens and on our pets.

Ticks are just one irritating bug that humans must deal with when it comes to protecting our bodies, especially as infected ticks can cause lyme disease when they bite.

But they also cause great danger to our fluffy companions as dogs are at serious risk of tick paralysis this summer.

Here are the signs all dog owners should look out for and advice on how to safely remove a tick from pets.

What is dog tick paralysis?

Tick paralysis also known as toxicity, is a "rapid and progressive" disease that effects the nerves in dogs, reports Pet MD.

It can be caused by the bite of a specific tick called the amblyomma, lxodes, and dermacentor – unfortunately, it injects a "unique neurotoxin" through its saliva.

What are the signs of tick paralysis all dog owners should be aware of?

The signs of tick paralysis usually begin anywhere from 5 to 9 days after a dog has been bitten.

"Paralysis typically starts in the hind legs, first with incoordination and gait abnormalities, and then progressing to the pet's inability to use its legs. Paralysis is usually symmetrical, involving both legs.

"This paralysis rapidly advances over the next 24 to 48 hours to affect the front legs, muscles involved with breathing, and sometimes even the nerves in the face. Tick paralysis can be difficult to diagnose, and progression and recovery can be unpredictable," adds Pet MD.

Oxford Mail: Although it's not a pleasant thing to do, removing a tick from your dog as soon as possible is importantAlthough it's not a pleasant thing to do, removing a tick from your dog as soon as possible is important (Image: Getty)

It's important to note dog owners should contact a vet immediately if they notice any of these symptoms or a change in their pet's mobility.

Other signs of tick paralysis include:

  • Facial nerve paralysis, decreased jaw tone, and eye reflexes
  • Laryngeal dysfunction, changes in bark quality and volume
  • Aspiration pneumonia secondary to laryngeal dysfunction
  • Decreased ability to breathe
  • Decreased muscle tone
  • How to remove a tick from a dog?

    One of the best ways to remove a tick from a dog is by twisting the bug with a tick-removal device that is available to buy at most pet shops.

    The Blue Cross website has offered the following steps to remove a tick:

  • Once you've located the tick, using gloves if you have them, gently part your dog's fur so that you can easily reach the tick
  • Get your tick remover and slowly push it under the tick
  • When you have a firm grasp of the tick, twist it in a clockwise direction several times until the tick comes loose
  • Take a look at your dog's skin and make sure the tick is completely removed
  • Get rid of the tick by putting it in alcohol or popping it in tissue and flushing it down the toilet before washing your hands
  • It adds: "You need to be careful not to squeeze the tick's body, or allow its head to get stuck inside your dog.

    "Squeezing a tick's body can cause it to expel blood back into your dog, increasing the risk of infection.  Ask your vet for advice if you're worried about doing this."


    Top 5 Best Tick Prevention For Dogs In 2024

    We independently select all products and services. This article was written by a third-party company. If you click through links we provide, we may earn a commission. Learn more

    Ticks pose a significant issue for dogs, especially in warmer weather periods. These parasites can provoke various health conditions, ranging from skin inflammation to severe illnesses like Lyme disease. Luckily, there are numerous tick prevention items available in the market to safeguard your beloved pet. In this piece, we will examine the finest tick prevention methods for dogs and factors to evaluate in selecting the appropriate product.

    Tick prevention products come in many different forms, including topical treatments, collars, and oral medications. Topical treatments are applied directly to your dog's skin and can provide long-lasting protection against ticks. Collars work by releasing a chemical that repels ticks, while oral medications are ingested by your dog and work to kill ticks from the inside out.

    When choosing a tick prevention product for your dog, it's important to consider factors such as effectiveness, safety, and ease of use. You'll want to choose a product that is proven to be effective against ticks and safe for your dog to use. Additionally, you'll want to choose a product that is easy to apply or administer, as this can make a big difference in how likely you are to use it consistently.

    Top 3 Best Tick Prevention for Dogs
  • K9 Advantix II XL Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & Prevention
  • K9 Advantix II Large Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & Prevention
  • Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs
  • As pet owners, we all want to keep our furry friends safe and healthy. One of the biggest health concerns for dogs, especially those who love spending time outdoors, is tick infestation. Not only can ticks cause discomfort and irritation, they can also transmit serious diseases. That's why it's important to invest in a reliable tick prevention product for your dog. In this article, we've rounded up the best tick prevention options on Amazon to help you keep your pup protected.

    1. K9 Advantix II XL Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & PreventionDogs Over 55 lbs.4-Mo Supply 4 Pack XL Dog only

    If you're looking for a veterinarian-recommended tick prevention for your large dog, K9 Advantix II is a great option. Here's what we found:

    Pros

  • Protects dogs over 55 lbs. From fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies and lice
  • Kills fleas within 12 hours of application
  • Kills and repels on contact so fleas don't have to bite your dog to die
  • Cons

  • May cause skin irritation in some dogs
  • Not recommended for dogs under 7 weeks old or under 55 lbs.
  • Some dogs may experience side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea
  • We found that K9 Advantix II was easy to apply and effective at preventing ticks and fleas. Within 12 hours of application, fleas were dying and our dogs were no longer scratching. We also appreciated that it protects against mosquitoes and biting flies, which can be a nuisance during outdoor activities.

    However, we did notice some skin irritation in one of our dogs after using K9 Advantix II. While this is a rare side effect, it's important to monitor your dog for any adverse reactions after using this product.

    Overall, we would recommend K9 Advantix II for its effectiveness in preventing ticks and fleas, as well as its ease of use. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and monitor your dog for any side effects.

    2. K9 Advantix II Large Dog Vet-Recommended Flea, Tick & Mosquito Treatment & Prevention

    If you're looking for a reliable and vet-recommended flea, tick, and mosquito treatment and prevention for your furry friend, then K9 Advantix II Large Dog is a great choice.

    Pros

  • Protects dogs from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice
  • Kills fleas within 12 hours of application
  • Vet-recommended formula kills and repels on contact so fleas don't have to bite your dog to die
  • Cons

  • Not effective at getting rid of fleas if they're already present
  • The plastic post that you're supposed to remove with the cap can sometimes go limp and can't be removed by the cap
  • Some dogs may experience mild skin irritation at the application site
  • We recently used K9 Advantix II Large Dog on our dog and were impressed with how quickly it worked to kill fleas and repel ticks and mosquitoes. The easy-to-apply topical treatment is fragrance-free and waterproof after 24 hours, so you don't have to worry about it washing off during bath time or swimming.

    One thing to note is that this product is not effective at getting rid of fleas if they're already present. It's best used as a preventative measure to keep your dog flea, tick, and mosquito-free. Additionally, some dogs may experience mild skin irritation at the application site, so it's important to monitor your dog after application.

    Overall, we highly recommend K9 Advantix II Large Dog as a reliable and effective flea, tick, and mosquito treatment and prevention for your furry friend.

    3. Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs

    If you're looking for a reliable and effective flea and tick prevention treatment, Frontline Plus for Dogs is a great option to consider.

    Pros

  • Provides long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks.
  • Proven to kill fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, chewing lice, and ticks that can transmit Lyme disease.
  • Easy to apply with one monthly dose providing protection from fleas and ticks for a full 30 days.
  • Cons

  • Some customers have reported that this product did not work for their dogs.
  • The product can be a bit pricey compared to other flea and tick treatments on the market.
  • It may take some time for the product to start working effectively.
  • We've used Frontline Plus for Dogs on our furry friends for years and have been very happy with the results. It's easy to apply and provides long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks, which is especially important if you live in an area with a high tick population.

    One of the biggest advantages of Frontline Plus is that it's waterproof, so you don't have to worry about it losing its effectiveness if your dog goes for a swim or gets caught in the rain. Additionally, it's designed to kill fleas at every stage of their life cycle, which helps prevent new infestations from occurring.

    While some customers have reported that this product did not work for their dogs, we've had great success with it. However, it's important to note that every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another.

    Overall, we highly recommend Frontline Plus for Dogs as a reliable and effective flea and tick prevention treatment.

    4. Activate II Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs4 CountExtra Large Dogs 55+ lbsTopical Drops4 Months Flea Treatment X-Large 55+ lbs

    If you're looking for a reliable flea and tick prevention for your extra large dog, we highly recommend the Activate II Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs.

    Pros

  • Activate II uses the same active ingredients as K9 Advantix II and is approved by veterinarians to repel and kill fleas and ticks on contact.
  • The topical drops prevent infestations by breaking the flea life cycle, with the insect growth regulator (IGR) starting to kill flea eggs and larvae within 12 hours of application.
  • The solution is easy to apply, simply apply to the base of your dog's neck, and the waterproof solution will travel across the skin, providing continuous protection for 30 days per application.
  • Cons

  • Some customers reported that the product didn't work as well as they expected, and their dogs still had fleas and ticks after using it.
  • A few customers mentioned that their dogs had skin irritation or allergic reactions to the product.
  • The product has a strong chemical smell that some customers found unpleasant.
  • In our experience, Activate II is a great option for extra large dogs that are prone to flea and tick infestations. We found the product easy to apply and highly effective at preventing infestations. However, we recommend monitoring your dog for any signs of skin irritation or allergic reactions after the first few applications. Overall, we think Activate II is a reliable and affordable alternative to other top brands.

    5. Vet Promise Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs Chewables

    If you're looking for a natural and safe flea and tick prevention for your furry friend, then Vet Promise Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs Chewables might be the right choice for you.

    Pros

  • The formula uses only natural ingredients, making it safe for dogs of all breeds and ages.
  • It's effective in preventing fleas and ticks from biting your dog with daily use.
  • The chewable tablets are easy to administer and can be given to your dog as a treat.
  • Cons

  • The tablets have a smell that might not be appealing to some dogs.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of the tablets.
  • It needs to be given to your dog every day for the best results.
  • We have been using Vet Promise Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs Chewables for a few months now, and we are happy with the results. The natural ingredients give us peace of mind that our dog is safe from harmful chemicals. The tablets are easy to give to our dog, and he loves them. We have noticed a significant reduction in the number of fleas and ticks on our dog since starting this supplement.

    The only downside we have experienced is the smell of the tablets, which can be strong and unappealing to some dogs. However, our dog still eats them without any issues. Additionally, the tablets need to be given to your dog every day for the best results, which might be a hassle for some pet owners.

    Overall, we highly recommend Vet Promise Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs Chewables for pet owners looking for a natural and safe way to prevent fleas and ticks from biting their furry friends.

    Buying Guide

    When it comes to tick prevention for dogs, there are a variety of products available on the market. Choosing the right one can be overwhelming, but we're here to help. In this section, we'll go over some key features to look for when selecting a tick prevention product for your furry friend.

    Active Ingredients

    The first thing to consider when choosing a tick prevention product is the active ingredients. Look for products that contain ingredients that are proven to be effective in repelling and killing ticks, such as fipronil, permethrin, or pyrethroids. Be sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions for use.

    Application Method

    The next thing to consider is the application method. Some tick prevention products are applied topically, while others are given orally. Topical products are typically applied to the dog's skin, while oral products are given as a pill or chew. Consider your dog's preferences and lifestyle when choosing an application method.

    Duration of Protection

    Another important factor to consider is the duration of protection. Some tick prevention products provide protection for only a few weeks, while others can last up to several months. Consider how often you are willing to apply the product and how frequently your dog is exposed to ticks.

    Additional Features

    Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you and your dog. For example, some tick prevention products also repel fleas, while others are water-resistant. Look for products that meet your specific needs and preferences.

    By considering these key features, you can choose a tick prevention product that will keep your dog protected and healthy.

    Frequently Asked Questions What are the safest options for flea and tick prevention in dogs?

    We recommend using flea and tick preventatives that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they are safe for dogs. Natural remedies like essential oils may not be effective and can even be harmful to your dog's health.

    Which tick repellents for dogs are most effective according to experts?

    According to experts, tick repellents containing permethrin, fipronil, or pyrethroids are the most effective. These ingredients are known to repel and kill ticks. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult your veterinarian before using any tick repellent on your dog.

    How can I quickly eliminate ticks on my dog?

    Ticks can be safely removed from your dog using tweezers or a tick removal tool. Grasp the tick with the tweezers as close to the skin as possible and gently pull straight out. Do not twist or squeeze the tick, as this can cause the head to remain embedded in your dog's skin. After removing the tick, clean the area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic.

    Are there any flea and tick medications for dogs linked to adverse health effects?

    Some flea and tick medications have been linked to adverse health effects, such as seizures, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, these cases are rare and usually occur when the medication is not used properly. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult your veterinarian before using any flea and tick medication on your dog.

    What are the most recommended flea and tick preventatives on pet forums like Reddit?

    On pet forums like Reddit, the most recommended flea and tick preventatives for dogs are usually Frontline, K9 Advantix, and NexGard. These products have been proven effective and are widely used by pet owners.

    Can I obtain effective tick prevention for my dog without a veterinary prescription?

    There are some over-the-counter flea and tick preventatives that do not require a veterinary prescription, such as Frontline and Advantix. However, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian to determine the best flea and tick preventative for your dog's individual needs.


    The 6 Best Flea And Tick Treatments For Dogs In 2024

    Best topical preventative overall Bayer Advantage Multi for Dogs

    With just one easy monthly application, Advantage Multi for Dogs treats, controls, and prevents more parasites than any other topical product.

    Not even the best flea and tick medicine for dogs controls every harmful parasite, but Advantage Multi for Dogs comes close. It's also one of our top picks for the best flea and tick treatments for puppies.

    Advantage Multi is a topical spot-on product that contains the active ingredients imidacloprid and moxidectin, which prevent flea infestations by killing adult fleas before they can lay eggs. It also prevents heartworm, mange mites, and three intestinal parasites: roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. If your dog already has worms, your vet may recommend treating them with one of the best dog dewormers. As with all medications that prevent heartworm, your dog needs a heartworm test before starting Advantage Multi and annually after that.

    Advantage Multi is easy to use: Every 30 days, apply it to the dog's skin at the base of the neck between the shoulder blades. The liquid medication is absorbed and dries within hours. Unlike other topical preventatives, you don't need to wear gloves to apply Advantage Multi. If you get the product on your hands, simply wash them with soap and water. For a half-hour after application, keep dogs from licking the application site, either on themselves or other treated dogs. Children should not touch the application site for two hours after application.

    Advantage Multi does not prevent ticks. If ticks are a concern, consider Frontline Plus for Dogs, Bravecto Topical for Dogs, or K9 Advantix II.

    Best OTC topical preventative Frontline Plus for Dogs

    Available without a prescription, Frontline Plus for Dogs kills adult fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks, and chewing lice on contact.

    Among the best flea and tick treatments for dogs, Frontline Plus is our top nonprescription recommendation because it kills ticks and fleas, controls flea infestations, and kills chewing lice, all with one easy application. When used primarily for flea control, each dose of Frontline Plus lasts up to three months. If ticks or biting lice are a concern, apply it monthly.

    Frontline Plus has been used and trusted by pet owners for over two decades. Parasites die on contact — they do not have to bite your dog for the treatment to work. Its active ingredients, fipronil and S-methoprene, work together to kill parasites and break the flea life cycle. Fipronil kills adult fleas and ticks, while S-methoprene prevents flea eggs, larvae, and pupae from developing. If your dog has a lot of fleas, it can take up to a month of consistent use to get rid of them because flea eggs can be in your home but not on your dog.

    Frontline Plus is easy to use. Squeeze all the liquid in the tube onto one spot of your dog's skin between the shoulder blades. The liquid medication spreads across your dog's skin and gets stored in the oil glands. It distributes itself continuously via the hair follicles.

    Best pill Simparica TRIO for Dogs

    Simparica TRIO treats, controls, and prevents more parasites than any other oral product, offering a full month of protection with one easy-to-give flavored pill.

    Our pick for the best flea and treatments for dogs in pill form is Simparica TRIO. This chewable tablet is fast-acting and kills more parasites than any other oral product. It starts to work within four hours and kills 100% of adult fleas on dogs within eight hours.

    Choosing between an oral or topical flea control product is tough for some dog owners. There are pros and cons to each type of product. In some cases, an oral preventive is a better choice. For instance, some dogs with sensitive skin can't tolerate spot-on treatments. "Oral products have the benefit of broad coverage to reach every spot of skin without the chance of the product being washed off," says Dr. Kate Crumley, a veterinarian with Blue Heron Consulting.  

    You can give the liver-flavored tablets with or without food once a month. The treatment contains three ingredients — sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel — and provides an entire month of protection against more parasites than any other oral product. Simparica TRIO is also safe for some of the youngest puppies and smallest dogs. It requires a prescription from your veterinarian, as well as a negative heartworm test. It should be used with caution in dogs with a history of neurologic disorders such as seizures.

    Best for young puppies Elanco Capstar for Dogs

    Capstar for Dogs is safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks old and starts killing fleas within 30 minutes.

    Fleas should be eliminated as quickly as possible for heavily infested dogs, especially young puppies. Available without a prescription, Capstar for Dogs is the only flea control product safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks and weighing at least 2 pounds. With other topical and oral flea control products, puppies must be at least 8 weeks old and sometimes older. 

    The active ingredient in Capstar, nitenpyram, works within 30 minutes and kills more than 90% of adult fleas on dogs in as little as four hours. Its protection against fleas lasts only 24 hours, but it is safe to give daily if necessary. Daily dosing is helpful for young puppies that might not be old enough to use an oral or spot-on product that offers long-term protection. Owners should follow up with a flea control product that provides a month or more of protection once the puppy is old enough.

    Best collar Seresto Flea and Tick Collar

    The Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs offers eight months of protection against fleas and ticks in all life stages.

    A March 2021 investigation by USA Today reported 1,700 animal deaths and other adverse reactions linked to Seresto flea collars. It's unknown if the EPA-approved pesticides used in the collar caused these incidents. You can read more about the safety of Seresto collars in our FAQs.

    Flea collars were once the main option for flea control, but most don't offer the same level of protection as topical and oral medicines. One noteworthy collar is the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs, which uses sustained-release technology to provide eight months of continuous protection against adult fleas, flea larvae, four species of ticks, chewing lice, and mange mites.

    In general, topical spot-on and oral preventatives are the most effective flea control for dogs, but the Seresto collar might be a good option in certain situations. Dr. Kelley Lay, a relief veterinarian in Nashville, Tennessee, says that traditional flea and tick collars are generally not very effective. She has even seen allergic reactions and other issues with some of them. However, she has found the Seresto collar safe and effective and recommends it to clients with pets who don't tolerate topical or oral flea and tick preventives.

    The collar is nongreasy, odor-free, lightweight, and adjustable for dogs of all sizes. It can be worn alongside your dog's regular collar and has a two-step safety system to keep your dog safe if the collar gets caught on something. The collar's active ingredients, imidacloprid and flumethrin, are released in low concentrations over your dog's skin and coat to kill fleas and ticks on contact — parasites do not need to bite your dog for the collar to work. It kills 100% of fleas within 24 hours of placing the collar on your dog. You don't need to remove this water-resistant collar during swimming or bathing with one of the best dog shampoos.

    Best shampoo

    Our top pick for the best flea and tick shampoos for dogs is Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo. In addition to killing fleas, flea eggs and larvae, ticks, and lice for up to 28 days, this shampoo soothes skin that has become dry and irritated from flea bites and constant scratching. 

    The shampoo contains pyrethrins and S-methoprene (Precor) synthetic pesticides commonly included in flea and tick shampoos. It also contains piperonyl butoxide to enhance the pesticides' effectiveness. Oatmeal helps heal irritated and itchy skin, and the shampoo has a pleasant coconut scent. 

    Lay says that flea shampoos are fine to use alongside prescription flea control medications but shouldn't be considered the first or best line of defense against fleas. Veterinarian-prescribed, year-round flea prevention remains the gold standard. Despite marketing claims, these shampoos do not provide substantial flea protection after the bath and may leave dogs susceptible to repeated infestations. Some ingredients in shampoos can also irritate the skin.

    What to look for in flea and tick medicine for dogs

    Safety and efficacy: FDA- or EPA-approved products have undergone rigorous safety and efficacy testing before going to market.

    Number of parasites treated: Using a product that protects against more than just fleas is convenient. While your veterinarian can advise you on which product is best for your dog, we generally favor products that cover more parasites. 

    There are some exceptions. For instance, Capstar treats only fleas, but it is the only medicine available for puppies younger than 6 weeks. OTC products, like Frontline Plus, protect against additional parasites such as ticks and lice but not heartworms. Products that treat heartworm always require a veterinary prescription.

    Ease of use: The easier it is to use a product, the better. For example, chewable tablets are quick and easy to give your dog, provided they like the flavor. Products that require a person to wear gloves when they apply it or require the treated animal to stay away from children or other pets for a while may be a hassle. 

    Minimum age and weight: Flea treatments are intended for dogs above a minimum age and weight. Your options for a very young puppy will be more limited until they are older and weigh more. 

    Prescription vs. Over-the-counter: Some flea control products are available over the counter. Others require a prescription from your veterinarian. You can buy prescription medicines from your veterinarian or online pet pharmacies and stores like Chewy, Petco, and PetSmart.

    Prescription flea control products typically cost more than OTC options because they protect against more parasites, most importantly, deadly heartworms. Dogs must test negative for heartworms before starting a heartworm preventive. 

    Types of flea and tick medications: There are several types of treatments, including topical, oral, collars, shampoos, and sprays. Cost, convenience, ease of use, and effectiveness vary among these products. Your vet can help you determine the best type for your dog. We advise against flea sprays because topical spot-ons and oral products are more effective. Remember that some dogs with sensitive skin may not tolerate topical products. Crumley says that frequent bathing or swimming may also reduce the effectiveness of a topical product that remains on the skin's surface.

    Natural vs. Synthetic: Our experts do not recommend using natural products instead of veterinarian-recommended topical and oral flea control. While natural treatments can deter fleas and ticks, they won't eliminate an infestation. "If you use them, be prepared to apply them at least daily before your pet goes outside for the best chance of keeping the hitchhikers from latching on," says Crumley. If you also have kitties at home, avoid natural flea control products containing essential oils because some can be toxic to cats.

    Other pets in your home: Any product labeled for use in only dogs should never be given to a cat. Some ingredients can be toxic to cats. While any dog-only flea product can harm felines, cats are especially sensitive to pyrethrins. If you're looking for a safe product for your cat, check out our guide to the best flea treatments for cats.

    How we selected the best flea and tick treatments for dogs

    We consulted two veterinarians for advice regarding the treatment and prevention of fleas and other parasites in dogs. This information guided our selection of the best flea and tick treatments for dogs, but our experts did not endorse any of the products included in this guide unless explicitly quoted.

    We also conducted research using the quick product reference guide published by the independent, nonprofit Companion Animal Parasite Council. This helpful reference includes all FDA- and EPA-approved parasite control products for small animals along with each product's active ingredients, directions for how to use it, and which parasites it controls.

    Flea medicine for dogs FAQs Do dogs really need flea and tick medicine?

    Yes. Not only are fleas and ticks a big nuisance, they also carry diseases that can make dogs extremely ill. Although you may be tempted to use parasite preventives only in spring and summer, fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and intestinal parasites are resilient. Veterinarians recommend that dogs stay on broad-spectrum parasite preventives all year.

    What are the types of flea and tick medicine for dogs?

    Flea and tick medicines are available as oral and topical products, collars, and shampoos. Oral products are chewable tablets, while topical products are ointments that go directly on the skin. Flea collars have fallen out of favor because they are less effective than oral and topical treatments. Shampoos are also less effective and do not provide long-lasting flea protection. These medicines are available over the counter or by prescription and contain different active ingredients to kill and repel fleas and ticks. 

    What do vets recommend to get rid of fleas?

    Getting rid of fleas can take several days to weeks. Veterinarians recommend a multipronged approach: Kill the existing fleas, prevent new infestations, and treat the environment, both indoors and outside. If you have multiple pets, treat them at the same time. Treating inside your home involves vacuuming where flea eggs and larvae like to hide, such as cracks and crevices, and washing bedding in hot water. Treating outdoors involves eliminating any areas where fleas could hide, such as piles of leaves and tall grass. If this process seems daunting, you can hire a pest control service.

    What is the most effective flea and tick treatment for dogs?

    There is no single treatment that works best for all dogs. The best flea and tick treatments for dogs vary in many ways, including how many parasites they target, active ingredients, safety restrictions, and how long they're effective. The most desirable treatments provide long-lasting protection, target adult fleas as well as eggs and larvae, and are effective against other parasites, such as heartworm and intestinal worms. Your veterinarian can help you select the most appropriate product for your dog.

    What kills fleas permanently?

    To eliminate fleas permanently, you'll need to do more than kill adult fleas. The other developmental stages, egg and larvae, must also be eliminated. Products that kill the early stages of fleas are the most effective. Year-round flea and tick treatment is also crucial to preventing future infestations. It may take several weeks before all the fleas are gone.

    Which is better, NexGard or Frontline?

    Both NexGard and Frontline kill fleas at all life stages, plus ticks. Both treatments have their advantages. There are several Frontline products: Shield, Plus, and Gold. Our top choice for an OTC flea preventive is Frontline Plus, which also protects against chewing lice and helps control sarcoptic mange infestations. Compared to Frontline Plus, NexGard kills fleas more quickly (4 hours versus 12 hours) and ticks (24 hours versus 48 hours). For this reason, NexGard is a better choice for preventing the transmission of Lyme disease from ticks. Some veterinarians also use NexGard to treat mange.

    What is the safest flea and tick medicine for dogs?

    Flea and tick medicines are FDA-approved to be safe and effective. However, these medicines also have safety restrictions depending on age, weight, and whether a dog is pregnant or nursing. Some treatments also have safety warnings for dogs with a history of seizures or other neurologic disorders. As you evaluate flea and tick medicines, check the label to ensure it's safe for your dog. 

    What is the difference between prescription and OTC flea medicine?

    Some flea control products are sold over the counter, while others require a prescription. Prescription products typically cost more than OTC treatments because they protect against more parasites, including heartworms. However, OTC options can still provide effective, long-lasting treatment against fleas and other parasites.

    Can I get flea and tick medicine without a vet prescription?

    Yes, OTC treatments are available without a prescription. These medicines usually do not protect against as many parasites as prescription flea and tick products.

    Do flea collars work?

    Yes. Flea collars work but are generally less effective than topical or oral treatments. Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs provides eight months of protection against adult fleas, flea larvae, ticks, and mange mites. Lay recommends flea collars for dogs that cannot tolerate topical or oral flea products. 

    Is Seresto harmful to dogs?

    In March 2021, USA Today and the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting published a report alleging that the Seresto flea collar is linked to thousands of adverse incidents in pets and humans. To date, 2,500 pet deaths have been allegedly linked to the collar.

    Elanco published a statement defending the collar's safety and efficacy. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and Pet Poison Hotline followed suit. The EPA recommends pet owners read the entire label before using any flea collar and follow all directions carefully. Your veterinarian can provide additional safety guidance. Purchase a Seresto collar only from a reputable online retailer, brick-and-mortar store with a guarantee program, or your veterinarian. To verify product authenticity, call Elanco product support at 800-422-9874. If your pet has an adverse reaction, immediately remove the collar and call your veterinarian. Tim Carroll, EPA's press secretary, advises pet owners to contact the  National Pesticide Information Center and report adverse reactions to the EPA.

    How can I tell if my dog has fleas?

    Fleas are hard to see with the naked eye. Look for signs of a flea infestation on your dog, including nonstop biting, scratching, or licking and red, irritated skin. Flea dirt, a rust-colored mixture of blood meal and dried feces, is a telltale sign of fleas and can be found in places your dog spends time, such as their bed. Running a flea comb against the direction of your dog's fur can pick up the dirt. You can often see it on your dog in hard-to-reach places like the base of the tail, middle of the back, and groin. Other signs include pale gums, which are a sign of anemia, and patches of hair loss. 






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