Are dog flea treatments safe?

Substances that are toxic to fleas and ticks can also be harmful to pets when consumed or applied in large quantities. These preventions are generally safe to use if the appropriate dose is administered. While they are all highly effective, they can cause toxicity if given incorrectly or if an overdose occurs. Dogs often become poisoned unintentionally either through the misuse of flea and tick prevention or through the accidental ingestion or absorption of insecticides. Prior to medicating your dog, verify the correct drug, dose and size of the product and that the proper time frame in between doses has occurred nor that someone else in the family already gave it. Not all products may result in toxic symptoms as products contain varying concentrations of drug but be sure to consult your veterinarian immediately if noted. To prevent accidental exposure, follow all directions on flea and tick preventives and insecticides very carefully. Ensure that your dog only receives his prescribed medication as flea and tick preventatives are dosed on body weight.

Always follow your vet's advice when considering flea treatment for your dog. You should speak to your vet about your dog's flea treatment needs. It's best to ask your vet for advice on a suitable treatment for your dog. Some products contain substances that kill adult fleas, while others work by interrupting the development of fleas – and some do both. Flea treatment tablets work by preventing the development of eggs into fleas, eliminating new generations all together. Herbal flea remedies are ineffective and some – such as tea tree oil – can even be toxic to pets. Puppies or weaker dogs are more at risk of developing health issues caused by fleas. Ask for your vet's advice about different species, as products effective in dogs may be toxic and dangerous to cats, and vice-versa.