Ticks & Fleas: How to get rid of them and how do you treat flea bites on dogs?
As we make our way into the Monsoon season, our pets face an increased risk of picking up a few unwanted guests on their fur. Fleas and Ticks are a common problem, but that doesn’t mean they can be dealt with lightly. Pet owners should be cautious of tick fever, flea bites on dogs, and different skin conditions that can seriously affect their furry loved ones. Before you find the right solution (such as a
tick repellent spray) for your pet, let’s talk a little
more about the problem and the available treatment.
Fleas and Ticks are transferred onto your pet when they are outdoors, through exploring gardens and interacting with other pets and animals. It is not uncommon for these infestations to make their way into your homes; visible on furniture, house plants, curtains, etc. In the case of fleas, the presence of one usually means there are hundreds, maybe even thousands, more of them as they rapidly reproduce and spread. For this reason,
it is important to find and apply the right solution as early as possible.
How do Flea and Tick Medications Work?
Available in several forms, Flea and Tick medications are the most common topical applications. These applications are usually administered in the form of a liquid that is squeezed onto the back of your pet’s neck. These medications make use of a variety of chemicals to target and terminate these pests, regardless of their stage of development. The most common chemicals found in these medications are
Permethrin or Amitraz. Fipronil is present to exterminate Fleas before they are able to lay eggs. Certain medications are also equipped to neutralize already laid eggs, preventing them from hatching as well as preventing the development of further larvae.
What Chemicals are used in Flea Medications? flea bites on dogs
Flea and Tick medications are usually comprised of a set of chemicals and active ingredients, and these ingredients vary across different medications. The most common form is a type of pyrethroid-based chemical that serves as an effective insecticide, along with carbamates and organophosphate insecticides.
According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, these substances are capable of causing harm to the nervous system of humans, especially in younger children. While the data regarding its harmful effects on household pets is limited, there have been cases in which exposure to these chemicals has proved harmful to pets. It is important to turn towards natural solutions in order to avoid the risk of harming your precious pets as the chemicals used in Flea and Tick medications are toxic for dogs and cats.
Pros and Cons of traditional Flea and Tick Medications
When searching for the ideal solution for your pet, it is important to account for all of the dangers posed by it. No matter how effective chemical substance medications prove to be:
- There is no denying the potential side effects and harmful qualities that need to be considered.
- Every pet owner knows how difficult it is to prevent your pet from licking/biting the spot where medication is applied.
- There are many dangers of ingesting these chemical-based Flea and Tick treatments as they are toxic, causing several unpleasant side effects such as:
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Excessive salivation.
- Appetite loss, etc.
Similarly, some of these medications result in skin irritation for the pet, which can further exacerbate the situation. Despite the benefits of these fast-acting solutions, we cannot ignore the potential side effects, irritations, and allergic reactions that can be caused by it. Instead, why not look towards natural herbal remedies that provide your beloved pet with a solution that’s just as effective, but comes with a significantly reduced risk.
The benefits of a safe, effective flea and Tick medication are tenfold. These medications are usually applied once every few weeks and are very straightforward to administer. Effective Flea and Tick medications target these pests across all life stages, ensuring that the infestation is properly dealt with.
Before using any kind of medication on your pet, please consult your veterinarian to confirm its suitability. Different pets have varying reactions to these medications, and it’s important to prioritize their comfort.