Pets are everything to pet owners. In most cases, they are considered an extension of the family. In many households dogs especially are not just pets but protectors too. Millions of dollars are spent on over-the-counter flea remedies at local drugstores or pet specialty stores, but are they safe?
Flea collars and topical remedies have been found to be toxic for dogs. In an article from Peta.org, “Why Most Flea-Control Products Are Dangerous”, the active ingredients include chemicals that have caused serious health problems in animals in laboratories.
There are four harmful flea treatment ingredients in these products:
- Imidacloprid
- Fipronil
- Permethrin
- Pyriproxyfen
According to Today’s Veterinary Practice’s website Imidacloprid, is a nerve agent, that creates adverse effects related to its oral administering. These include; vomiting, decreased appetite, lethargy, diarrhea or soft feces, and difficulty walking.
Wagwalking.com mentions it being spread through dog hair follicles and onto their skin, creating a barrier to block fleas for up to a month. Toxicity tends to be more prevalent in older or sickly dogs. Dogs of smaller stature or that have irregularly low body temperatures also are at greater risk of toxicity. Sensitive skin dogs are also prone to its toxicity. In fact, the aerosol form is highly toxic as stated by Sciencedirect.com.
Fipronil is another nerve agent producing similar symptoms in dogs. Sciencedirect.com noted, “Fipronil is a relatively new insecticide that was first introduced in 1996”. Theguardian.com further stated that “Fipronil is one of the most commonly used flea products.”, said Rosemary Perkins at the University of Sussex in the UK. Professor Dave Goulson, also at the University of Sussex, commented further, “The problem is these chemicals are so potent”.
Permethrin also shares similar side effects of imidacloprid and fipronil such as lethargy, diarrhea, and difficulty walking. Toxicity also is more prevalent in older or sickly dogs, and those having skin sensitivities.
Pyriproxyfen is used to control flea growth in dogs. It will not kill adult fleas or any stages of a tick. Its side effects have been noted as diarrhea, unusual breathing, and loss of muscle control in dogs, as seen on parasitipedia.net.
These are only a few select ingredients, but there are others to be aware of. That's why it's imperative to review all of the ingredients labeled before making a purchase so you can make the most informed decision for the safety of your pet.
There are safer alternatives available, a possible alternative being methporene. Before starting any treatment you should always seek advice from your veterinarian.
More information is located from National Pesticide Information Center, Monday - Friday, between 8:00am - 12:00pm Pacific Time (11:00am - 3:00pm Eastern Time) at 1-800-858-7378 or visit them on the web at http://npic.orst.edu.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.
