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Another common scenario in the clinic is when veterinarians ask clients about which flea or tick control products they are using, and are often told over the counter products picked up at the local feed store or supermarket. As a veterinarian of nearly 20 years experience, I can tell you that many of the local topical reactions as well as rare whole body reactions, often occurs in pets treated with cheaper imitation topical spot-on products purchased over the counter. |
And while rare reactions can occur with any topical pesticide, I do recommend that clients stick with the more tried and tested long standing flea and tick products such as Advantage, K9 Advantix, Frontline Plus and Revolution. Because of increasing reactions in recent years, especially with the cheaper over the counter version spot on products, the EPA is re-examining the labeling requirements, as well as precautions they will require on all such products. A statement on this is pending and should be released soon by the EPA. The important point for animal guardians to understand is that when using a topical flea and tick product that they strongly consider sticking with the ones that I mention here as being most reliable in terms of performance and safety.
This is especially important, given the increasing number of flea and tick born diseases being seen in both animals and people. However, if any rare topical, digestive, or neurological reactions occur, any such reactions should be immediately reported to not only your veterinarian and drug manufacturer, but also your local poison control center for instructions on treatment. And of course an alternative product should be chosen in the future.
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46 Comments
I have to agree with this letter. I have worked with animal’s all my life on study on them all the time and due to new strains that pop up all the time I will never stop learning things change all the time. I have seen reactions such as fur loss, rashes, staff, vomitting, diarriah, mood swings even! A lot of people dont understand that all meds have a shelf life as well but very on how long they are good for. I had taken n a puppy that was about to be thrown out onto the streets and I told them no ill take her and they gave me some heartguard for here which I thought was pritty cool considering what they were doing with her so before I gave it to her I looked at the exp. Date and it expired seven years prior. A bad thing about over the counter meds is that most of them are like antiques they may have been used by vets a long time ago but with everything changing they might not even work I mean when you see people putting fleas collars on and topical sprays and ointments and other things bout from your everday store its time to rethink what your doing. I used comphortis and it is the best thing I have ever used! But you have to be careful on the dosage and consolt it with your vet because of the levels of ivermection thats in it and in the heartgaurd you give ur pet every month. Im glad to see more people caring about animals these days though its pritty awsome!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
May 31st, 2010 at 11:33 pm
Thanks for your input. Yes people must certainly be informed of the potential for toxicity when using various combinations of over the counter flea and tick medications. The EPA in fact, has just come out with a strong statement that will be requiring all manufacturers of topical flea/tick products to provide stronger labelling and precautions.
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Mary-iskah Reply:
July 12th, 2011 at 12:05 am
WOW…you really should learn how to master your own English language. I mean the spelling, punctuation, and grammar are so horrific that I can not even understand what you are trying to say!! GOOD GRIEF! Get an education before trying to express your feelings in writing.
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Angel Reply:
December 14th, 2011 at 7:18 am
Mary-iskah, while I agree with your sentiment, your post was mean-spirited and unnecessary. By the way, “cannot” is one word, not two. The problem with pointing out someone else’s errors is that you, inevitably, make your own, which makes YOU look like . . . .
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Hannalee Reply:
January 27th, 2012 at 1:26 am
BTW, when cannot is spelled “can not,” it is supposed to carry emphasis, according to grammarians, but as you know, the souls of grammarians are lean, bony creatures.
Hannalee Reply:
January 27th, 2012 at 1:24 am
It’s true, the grammar and spelling are awful, but in spite of all that the content is nice. I really like the metaphor about antiques. I don’t think you should make such harsh criticisms in that way. A lot of writers can’t spell. As an amateur linguist, I also have to say I like the variant spelling of “pritty.” Maybe you should stay away from reading in public forums. Besides all that–should we criticize the learning obtained in our starved school systems?
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Thank you for this article. I think if more people realized the potential side effects of these grocery store treatments, few would be willing to risk their pets’ safety. The discount topical flea preventatives from the grocery store may be cheaper initially, but when you consider the cost of rushing to the emergency vet with a dog that is foaming at the mouth, pacing, or even having seizures, it doesn’t seem quite economical, does it? In addition, I have yet to see one that is actually effective.
Please, for the sake of your dogs’ happiness and health, listen to your vet and put your pet on a safe and effective flea and heartworm preventative. I promise you he or she is not just trying to squeeze some extra money out of your wallet. They are genuinely looking out for the best interest of your pet. If you’re still not convinced, search on the internet for information about reactions to common discount flea preventative brands. The results will horrify you.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 6th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
Thank you for your comments. Remember that 1800petmeds is also very reliable source of topical products like front line plus and advantix, which are the exact same ones sold at your veterinarians’ office.
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Then why on earch don’t they lower the price of these meds so we’re not tempted to use OTC??? The prices are so high if you have multiple animals.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 6th, 2010 at 8:54 pm
That is question for the pharmaceutical companies who manufacture them. Supply and demand sort of thing, just like with prices of gasoline, etc
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Heidi Reply:
June 6th, 2010 at 9:24 pm
I have a 55 lb. and 85 lb. dog who are on Revolution, and when you look at it, the prices aren’t unreasonable. It comes out to less than $14.00 per month per dog, and protects them from heartworms, fleas, ear mites, ticks, and sarcoptic mange.
While it is more expensive than the OTC flea treatments, it’s safe and actually works, something that can’t be said about the cheap grocery store brands. It also dries quickly, unlike the grocery store products that leave a huge greasy spot on the dog’s fur (and inevitably your couch).
Also, bear in mind that treating heartworms is extremely difficult on your pet and very expensive. A flea infestation can take months and a lot of money to get under control, and you and your pets will be miserable in the process. I think the cost of presciption flea and heartworm preventatives is well worth it.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 9th, 2010 at 12:08 am
HI Heidi:
Thanks for your excellent points and observations. Revolution is one of many excellent prescription multipurpose parasite products that actually does work wonderfully.
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I saw Frontline & Advantix at Target & Costco. Doesn’t that mean they are over the counter?
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 13th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
Yes both of these products have been made available in retail stores.
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I became painfully aware of the awful truth about the cheap grocery store brands the EPA had just put a warning out on circa April 2009. Had I known about the warning, I wouldn’t have tried to save a buck that awful day. After using the correct application according to size for my yorkie, we spent 3 sleepless nights watching him suffer in horrible discomfort wondering if he was going to die. An emergency trip lasting 4hours in the waiting room at the vet yielded no help as they had a more important emergency.
Thank God he survived. However, I was astonished at the fact the my regular vet and fellow dog owners were oblivious to this reality about the cheaper spot-on medicines. Why is it taking so long for the EPA to get these poisons off the shelves altogether? This is serious. I don’t think stricter labeling is the answer. I followed the correct size and directions for application and went through hell and even lost my job because I called in for 3 days because I wouldn’t leave my suffering dog’s side. When I walk the pet isle of the local grocery store, I get angry to see shelves still loaded up with these!! I was lucky but many dogs and cats have actually suffered permanent damage and death because of this.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 15th, 2010 at 11:51 pm
HI Maria: All of your points are extremely well taken, and why it is so important for animal guardians to make informed decisions about any decision about any pet products or procedures, including vaccinations, diet choices, etc Unfortunately most vets are not trained in toxicology or that some of these products, innoculations and/or poor long term diets can cause long term problems in some pets. That is why many vets have turned to holistic vet medicine, in addition to their conventional veterinary medical training. I would suggest and recommend you seek out a vet who not only can do conventional vet medicine and surgery, but who also may have a holistic vet background as well, who can also help guide in selection of products to use for flea control, diet choices, etc
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NRussell Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 2:38 pm
Could you please tell us the name of this product? It seems I don’t understand the issue here. One says NOT to use OTC products while one says that Frontline, Advantix etc. are being sold OTC. Which ones are safe? Are you telling me that Frontline at the vet’s office is safer than Frontline at say KMart??? I’ve used all those meds from the vet and every one of them give my cockers problems. I bought a really good one (that works for them) at a feed and seed store and they have had NO issues whatsoever. To buy it from the vet……they require an appt. first. So instead of just paying for the meds, I must also pay for a visit……How is that less expensive? Same for Heartworm meds. It’s really really STUPID to require a vet visit before being able to purchase heartworm meds. I know I know….I’ve heard the spiel……”if you give it to your dog and they have heartworms, they can die” WELL, if they do have heartworms and you DON’T give it to them, they’re gonna die anyway……so what’s the point here?……It’s money in the Vet’s pociket, that’s what it is. If they don’t allow us to purchase and give it to them regularly, then their chances are greater of getting heartworm. SOO, my dogs have gone 2 years now without heartworm meds because the vets are requiring appts. before they will sell it. It’s WRONG. It’s LIES. It’s DANGEROUS. Not only that, who gave the vets the right to be our doggies’ POLICE????? I don’t trust any vet anymore if they can sit there and lie to me and tell me they are not allowed to sell it to me without an appt. It’s NOT a law. It’s nothing more than a scheme from the veterinarian’s association. If I’m wrong, please enlighten me because this is what a vet told me.
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NRussell Reply:
September 15th, 2010 at 1:29 am
So I guess I’m not wrong because no one has bothered to share the other side. It’s a stinkin scheme.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 15th, 2010 at 8:19 am
Front line plus and many others are available over the counter now. All I can comment on is that the name brands that you would buy currently from 1800petmeds are the same products sold at veterinarians. Many such as advantix, advantage and front line can be purchased without a prescription while others like revolution need a prescription. I cant comment on reliability and/or other suppliers of over the counter flea products at the local feed supply stores, etc.
NRussell Reply:
September 15th, 2010 at 4:28 pm
Dr. Dym, you also shouldn’t be commenting on products sold from veterinarians because you don’t know them personally as well and you really don’t know if there are/are not freaks out there selling crap and calling themselves veterinarians. So, you probably should stick with only comments regarding 1800petmeds. Not all veterinarians are 100% believable either. We might assume that but they’re not. So by making such comments, you are also assuming that all vets are 100% believable, therefore, you may also be making false statements by standing behind all veterinarians and their products. By making such comments as those on here, we can also assume that we can’t trust any and all feed and seed stores nor can we trust the typical markets to sell us quality goods. If I were a store chain, I’d have something to say about the negative, and possibly false, statements about my products that you post on here. Do you understand where I’m coming from? I just find it interesting that all of a sudden out of no where, chain stores sell “harmful pet products” and only veterinarians sell the real stuff. Granted there are probably a few places across the globe that sell generic crap that could harm your pet. I’m sure the vets are not immune nor susceptible to receiving such products either…..maybe less likely but probably not completely immune. The veterinarian association has also come up with a scheme to make money off products our pets need. Here’s a clip from a lawsuit and the comments made regarding the product.
“ProHeart is “safe, inexpensive and easily administered”; ProHeart 6 is alleged to be “potentially more profitable” because it is administered through veterinarians and cannot easily be discounted.’ Rule v. Fort Dodge Animal Health, Inc., Case No. 09-1364 It’s all about profit…..not the safety of our pets and it’s WRONG!!!
By the way, ProHeart was recalled by the FDA.
Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 10:35 am
i just wanted to comment that the reason why vets are requiring an appointment before they dispense heart worm preventative is simply because giving the preventative to a dog that has heart worm can cause more trouble than good. Just imagine the heart filled with worm, the dog is given preventative to kill the worms, and all the worms writhing throughout the heart as they die…. not a good scenario for the poor doggie, imagine how much that would hurt. And in any case, ask any vet and they will tell you a dog can die from the treatment at the vet’s office; so how would you feel if your dog died at home from the preventative. The mandatory appointment is due to the fact that vets care about pets and ALL vets seem to have made this a rule- test BEFORE treating. Honestly, my clinic would allow for heart worm testing only before perscribing, but most make you get the full annual exam & vaccines. Talk to your vet and see what you can work out. I live in Florida, and in states with such a high population of mosquitos as FL require heart worn prevention just to keep your dogs safe! Keep these tidbits in mind while skipping the heart worm prevention.
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 10:48 am
i also wanted to make a point to say that the FDA is there for all of our safety. Sometimes things do get recalled, as in human medicines, BUT only after high numbers of incident reactions are reported. You can use a preduct for years with no problems (and it’s safe), but if enough reports to the manufacturer come in about side effects in other animals, they will pull the product. Do you understand this? Only some animals have problems with certain products, but when the numbers get high enough the FDA makes sure to get rid of it because of POTENTIAL problems than may occur. And besides these manufacturers like Pfizer (Revolution) and Bayer (Advantage/-tix) have been around for years in both human AND vet medicine. They have spent big $$ in research to develop new products and continually research over years to make sure the products are 1-safe, 2-do what they are labelled to do & 3- development to make the products better.
THE ONE BIG THING with buying products from the vet is the manufacturer’s warranty to reimburse you if your pet gets sick from any of the things the product is supposed to protect from. hope this info helps.
Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:04 pm
The FDA does try to police for these reactions and take the necessary steps to lessen the risks to our pets.
NRussell Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 5:26 pm
It still doesn’t make sense because the dog can and will die without the heartworm meds and will die with the heartworm meds if he already has them. SOOO, Knowing that my dogs have been on heartworm meds their entire lives and then all of a sudden we’re made to have them tested because they may have heartworms is a BIG CROCK!!! Their answer is just like yours “well, if they have heartworms and you give them the meds then they could die” WELL, they’ll die WITHOUT the meds too so what’s the difference????? Explain that one to me!
Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 10:53 pm
I have seen very rare positives on dogs even on heartworm year round. It is important for guardians to know that so as to restrict exercise, etc and to be aware of the possible clinical consequences.
Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:07 pm
However Trish on many occasions even veterinary cardiologists have recommended monthly heartguard or equivalent to animal guardians sometimes in treating positive dogs if they are risk for reaction to the approved immiticide product for heartworm adult killing. Usually 1-2 consecutive years of continuous use many dogs will go negative, however they should be kept calm. In dogs on year round prevention, every other year testing is fine in my book and opinion.
NRussell Reply:
September 30th, 2010 at 3:27 am
It’s still MY DOG….no vet should have the right to control what I do or don’t do with my dog. Why don’t we just put everyone in a bubble so we don’t get hurt or get toenjoy life because of everyone’s “fears”. It’s STUPID!!!!
Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 30th, 2010 at 8:36 am
As you dog’s legal animal guardian, you certainly have a right to do or not do with your dog in terms of treatment, testing,etc
Does anyone know of a product that will eliminate a strong yeasty odor on a dog? We have spent literally hundreds on vet visits – even changed vets – and they always just put her on cephalexin. We have bought so many different shampoos from vets, retail stores, etc.. but the smell returns a day or two later. She does have health issues (cherry eye, pancreatits, etc..) and has probably 2 dozen benign tumors all over her body. We don’t know what else to try. Her food can’t be the problem – because of her pancreatitis and the fact that she is a pomeranian/dacshund mix and weighs 27 lbs. – she only gets a handful of Old Roy Dinner Rounds and 3 slices of Fat Free Turkey per day. Any suggestions on what we can use to stop this smell – it eminates from her entire body.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 15th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
There are many antifungal shampoos such as chorihexiderm shampoo and ketochlor, which is also antibacterial from 1800petmeds. I would strongly consider going more holistic in your health care approach with her. STart with book dr Pitcairns guide to natural health for dogs and cats by Richard PItcairn, DVM, phd and follow some of those recipes in there. I bet you see difference in her overall health within a few months.
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December Reply:
July 17th, 2010 at 7:49 am
First has the Vet confirmed it is Yeast. If vet has not confirmed it to be yeast. Or you have not taken your pet the vet for this. Do that first. The reason for this is to make sure you do not have a skin infection. Next if the Vet has said yes it is yeast. Then first stop anything Ole Roy. Anything Ole Roy feeds yeast in dogs. Walmart needs to do better by our dogs. They offer us pure crap and our dogs pay for it through smelly and itchy skin. Precise dog food with probitics is GREAT. Zymox shampoo fights yeasty. It is a wonders antifungal yeast fighting shampoo. Plus leaves a great smell. As a treat feed your dog a spoonful of Greek yogurt. Also theracoat is wonderful product as well. Stay away from anything walmart sells as food./treats for dogs. Also no pupparonis or beggin strips. Good luck email me if you need any more help.
December
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Nikki Reply:
July 21st, 2010 at 1:32 pm
we have a french bulldog and she is 16 yrs old, she had a bad skin problem and smelled real bad. We had tried so many things and we finally found that a few drops of ” tea tree oil” in any shampoo (dog or people shampoo) worked really well. It has a strong smell when you are bathing the dog but after it’s dry the smell goes away.
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Loretta Reese Reply:
August 7th, 2010 at 11:46 am
Hey Nikki: My lab use to get excema really bad and would lose her hair. She use to get cortisone shots and I hated it due to the side effects. When we moved another vet told me to try an over the counter oatmeal shampoo and creme rinse to condition her skin. I did and she did not have to continue with the cortisone shots. That was 18 years ago and I use oatmeal shampoo and creme rinse still to this day. Get both. I pick them up at petsmart and get the natural/organic one. It is from Top Paw Oatmeal Baking Soda Shampoo and Conditioner. I have used this product for the last 5 years. I hope this helps your dog.
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NRussell Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 2:42 pm
Tea tree oil is toxic for dogs. Please stop using it. on your dog. If you don’t believe me, do some research online or ask a vet.
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:07 pm
I have not found tea tree products to be toxic to dogs when used according to manufacturer’s recommendations. . Cats, however are more sensititive to side effects of tea tree in my experience and opinion.
Toni Moll Reply:
August 8th, 2010 at 8:50 am
I have 3 dogs teacup poodle 4 lbs, yorky 5 lb and maltipoo 12 lb. all my dogs use Solid gold wee bits and they have had dno skin issues or allergies. This is a holistic dog food found at petco. The cost is 14.99 for 4 lbs and 15 lb 33.19. I had used eukanuba when my teacup was a puppy and found her having hair loss and the smell was horrible. I have compared alot of dog food and I still stay with Solid gold and have for the past 10 years. All my dogs have maintained a healthy weight, Good luck
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Lisa Wintroub Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
Helen,
I agree with Kit. You need to change your dogs food. I haven’t heard of Honest Kitchen but will check it out. I found a wonderful food online from a new company called Nulo. Please check it out. I have 4 dogs and 2 cats who have been on this food for about 5 months and they love it!!! It is high quality FRESH food that ships right to your door. Their website and customer service is awesome! When you consider the quality and how convenient it is, I feel the cost is reasonable. Another product you might find useful is Dinovite. This is a nutritional supplement that you add to your pets food. It has the consistency of coffee grounds. It treats infected ears (usually due to low quality food and yeast) itchy skin etc. Again I would check out their website. Good Luck.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 11:00 pm
Thanks for sharing these other products/companies. . Honest kitchen is indeed a reliable holistic pet food company that has a wonderful relationship with holistic vets and is trustworthy and reliable.
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Helen- Your dog’s food IS the problem. Please run (do not walk) to your nearest bookstore and buy the book Foods Pets Die For by Ann Martin. I promise you it will change your life forever and you will want to share this info with all of your pet loving friends. All vets have inadequate nutrition training from the vet schools courtesy of Purina and Science Diet. I recommend switching to the Honest Kitchen.
Also, taking her to a canine dermatologist isn’t a bad idea either.
Good luck!
Kit
(proud parent of a highly allergic yet yeast free basset hound with tons of wrinkles and is currently taking a nap)
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 15th, 2010 at 11:44 pm
HI Kit: As a holistic oriented vet also trained by one of the longest term best known veterinary specialists on proper diets, I would also recommend home made diets in Book Dr Pitcairns guide to natural health for dogs and cats by Richard PItcairn, DVM, phd. I highly agree with you about sad status of most pet foods recommended by most vets and paucity of training in nutrition in vet school. I think dermatologists charge clients lots of money and many dont get better or keep coming back. Also may be worth exploring holistic vet options like http://www.theAVH.org for list of homeopathic vets by state.
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This is so true. As a new pet owner a few years ago I used some meds from a grocery store and a large chain store. My cats started twitching, vomiting, and one even had a seizure. When I switched to frontline as recommended by the vet-no more problems with reactions, and no fleas or ticks!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 30th, 2010 at 12:33 am
While reactions can rarely occur with any topical pesticides, even front line on occasion, I do find the reactions much more commonly in the over the counter cheaper pet store versions.
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I was wondering if Liberty 50 plus igr spot on for dogs any good? and know side effects? before I put this on my corgi
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
July 1st, 2010 at 10:41 pm
I have no experience using this product and so can neither refute it or recommend it. I would still stick with tried and tested products like front line plus or advantix.
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What is the difference & which is the better product; K9 Advantix, or FrontLine Plus? Thanks.
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Ankhorite Reply:
July 18th, 2010 at 5:00 pm
I asked the director of our local hunting dog rescue league this exact question. She lives in Maryland. She had six dogs in the house. She used K9 Advantix on five of them, and had NO TICKS AT ALL.
She used Frontline on the sixth dog (because she happened to have some Frontline around in doses appropriate to that particular dog’s size). That dog DID get ticks.
So I’m using K9 Advantix. BEWARE! Regular Advantix does NOT protect against as many kinds of vermin as “K9 Advantix.” Both are over-the-counter (OTC) now at PetSmart.
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Loretta Reese Reply:
August 7th, 2010 at 11:52 am
I have used K9 Advantix on my dogs and cats. I have never had fleas or ticks. I think it is the best. I have used the other and I prefer K9 Advantix. I presently have 3 chocolate labs and can’t count the cats (i feed strays) and I treat them all. If I get a hold of the stray cat, they get fixed. Anyways, K9 Advantix is the best product on the market.
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 10:58 am
just so you know loretta, K9 Advantix is for K9s (DOGS)!!! It says right on the front label in bold “DO NOT USE ON CATS.” Your cats may be strays, but if you care about them stop using Advantix on them. It is for dogs and way to strong for cats, you don’t want to kill them….right? Advantage (not Advantix) can be used on cats and works for fleas, though not ticks. A good product for cats is Revolution. It not only does Fleas and Ticks, but also (in cats only) Ear mites, magne, and intestional parasites. It’s a little pricey ($90 for 6 at my clinic), but it’s really worth it if you can afford it.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:04 pm
Revolution is an excellent alternative for cats although in my experience and opinion I have seen some cats react to it on occasion but that is possible with any of the products.
I don’t know for sure if my dog has fleas or just dry skin. She will be 1 year old August 4th. But she is all black except for a little white on her chest so we cannot see anything on her. If I would buy some frontline plus will it hurt her if she doesn’t have fleas or ticks?
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Angela Reply:
August 2nd, 2010 at 4:26 pm
Roxanne: I used to be a big believer in not putting flea/tick prevention on my cats as they are indoor animals, however, now after MANY battles with fleas I have them on monthly to bi-monthly treatments and have seen no problems with them. The whole point of flea and tick medication is to prevent them, but many of us don’t use it until after we have a problem. Check with your vet for which medication is right for your dog, and after applying it, make sure she doesn’t have an allergic reaction to it. Other than that, she should be just fine, and you won’t have to deal with the hassle of flea removal in the future. Good luck!
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hello to all, first time on this site and I am very impressed. I have a small ‘American’ white 8#, 2 year old dog that my father had found for me as a lap dog. Being disabled in a wheelchair this dog help me with my rehabilitation and I walk now, all because of a wonderful dog that I call Bones. I love him so much and I bought him a flea collar at the grocery store, not to save money, but only just to buy a flea collar. Bones got very ill, he was lethargic, vomiting, and would barely drink water. I took him to a wonderful vet, and after all the test, we came to the conclusion that it was from a very, what i thought a good name brand flea collar. His allergic reaction all most killed him. 2 nights at the vet hospital and more than a third of my disability Social Security, he is fine. Now, all I can do is spread the word about flea collars. I had no idea, that I was harming my dog. Thank You, Liz Lynch
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:09 pm
Many of the over the counter flea collars are not safe in my experience and opinion. I would stick with some of the wonderful and reliable products like front line plus or advantage from 1800petmeds.
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I have a question? I have treated me dogs with Frontline Plus. And I have treated my house and yard. But I am still finding alot of fleas on my pets. And How do I get rid of them???I have tried washing them in flea shampoo that i got from 1800petmeds. And i used the Virbac knockout foger and the Bio Spot Carpet.. Can anyone help me!!!!!
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:11 pm
Try using the company flea busters which you can find on line or have house professionally exterminated. I would also consider getting a yard and kennel spray to help control fleas there from local garden store. Consider oral program anc capstar for additional protection.
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:13 am
Yes Flea Busters is great, they have a 1 year guarantee that you will be flea free (void if shampoo carpeting or steam clean tile/wood) that they back up by paying for an outside company to treat your house if you get fleas in that year. But the big thing is, it takes up to 5 weeks for the treatment to start working.
Also keep in mind when using topicals that some KILL and some REPEL. We all know what the killing products do, but the repelling ones basically keep the fleas off of the animal, but not the humans. When the flea bites a “repel” treated animal they immediately jump off and look for a meal that hasen’t been treated. And in all cases of infestion, the fleas spend more time OFF of the animal than they do on them. They root around in our carpets and furniture laying eggs and larvae squirming around. The eggs only hatch when a warm bodied meal comes by (like motion or heat activated), so you can bomb all you like to kill the adults and larvae without touching the eggs at all. Some bombs have a special egg hatching inhibitor called PRECOR- this is the ones to use. They prevent the eggs from hatching and you’ll removing them from the carpet when vacuuming.
Another thing i forgot once when completely infested with fleas a few years ago….. EMPTY YOUR VACUUM BAG EVERY TIME YOU VACUUM!!!! Anything you suck up in the vacuum stays in the bag (canister and bagless work differently), including any live fleas, larvae and unhatched viable eggs. Therefore…. the adults and larvae can crawl back out and reinfest the house, and the eggs can hatch and those larvaes will also crawl out.
Another important point is to treat the yard. Even if you treated the house and have a good topical preventative on the dog, any fleas in the outside environment can hitch a ride inside on you or your dog. And if you have neighbors with animals, keep in mind that they could also have fleas, which would mean another gateway to reinfestation. So a continual yard treatment plan and year round topical control (on the animal) is key in keeping this problem in check. I spray my yard once every few months just because there’s stray cats in my neighborhood. Good luck with it all!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
Wonderful description of the multifaceted needs of flea control both on the animal in terms of repelling and killing fleas, as well as the home and yard. All wonderful points and suggestions. Too many times people miss a component of total flea control and then wonder why their topical flea products are not working.
The cheap stuff from the store doesn’t work anyway. My flea problem got so bad last year that I broke down and went to the vet. I got revolution some spray for the carpet (don’t remember what it was called) and capstar. The fleas died, which made me very happy. So @ Susan They are expensive because they work.
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:12 pm
Revolution is an excellent product in addition to others like front line plus or advangage, Also consider program and capstar if flea problem very bad.
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I use K9 Avantix on both my cats and dogs. I have never had a flea problem. I feel it is the best one on the market today.
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Thanks for sharing. K9 advantix in addition to topical front line plus, as well as oral program and capstar are all excellent flea control measures in pets. Also always important to treat the home, where much of flea life cycle occurs.
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:16 am
K9 AdvanTIX is for dogs only! it can harm/kill cats!!!!! AdvanTAGE is for cats and dogs both. Make sure which one you are using, K9 ADVANTIX says on the front label ” DO NOT USE ON CATS.” Just make sure which one your using and DON”T use Advantix on cats!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:01 pm
Once again excellent points to make to the blog readers.
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I just bought the K-9 Advantix. i really hope that it works. my dog has been having a problem with fleas not ticks for a while now. We’ve tried everything. The bath, the spray, and Adams brand from Wal-mart. nothing has truly helped. I do have a question. My dog likes to sleep out back behind the garage where there are no doubt a lot of mosquitoes and fleas even though he has a dog house. What can we do because even if we protect his body he will still sleep in this corner? Is there any product you can buy for spraying an area?
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:14 pm
There are excellent environmental sprays such as knockout from 1800petmeds. For the yard and kennel areas, you can purchase insect growth regulators from local pet supply or hardware stores.
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My dogs are itching from recent flea bites. I have gotten the fleas under control, but theya re still itching. My sister has some Chlorpheniramine 4mg but was dispensed 9/20/07. I am afraid to give this to my dogs but I have heard that meds usually have a 5 year shelf life. Is it safe and if not, what can I do? I have 3 dogs and cannot afford to take them to the vet right now.
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
In my experience and opinion, such products will still work, even with expiratiion date, as the only down side is they may be slightly less potent. However I see no problem with trying these products first.
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:21 am
Due to the reaction to the flea’s saliva that makes animals and people itch, your animal can itch up to 7 days after being bitten by the last flea. Example: if your dog is bitten today, then again in 2 weeks….he will itch starting today and up to 1 week, then stop for a week, then start again when bitten again.
Keep in mind there are 2 types of topical flea controls: ones that KILL and ones that REPEL. Any that repel only get the fleas off if they bite the animal and then they jump off STILL ALIVE and ready to find a better meal. Make sure of which product type you are using. Because if you only have one that REPELS, you might want to switch to one that KILLS.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:01 pm
All excellent points Trish from your experience and knowledge as a vet tech.
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To begin with, my dog is a rat terrier. We love her, she is like a little child. We did not have flea medicine and she got infected. She was very uncomfortable and I went to the vet to get Frontline. The lady at the counter sold me the Frontline but she informed me that Walmart sold it. I told her that it would be the weakened version. Frontline is what I have always used to treat my dog. I have always purchased it from a vet or Pet Meds. Can you tell me if what the lady told me is true. Thank you for your time.subscyn
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:16 pm
I cant comment on over the counter versions, but I can tell you that the front line you get from 1800petmeds is the original and potent product you are used to buying from your vet.
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Have 1 yr old cat, don’t know if fleas are in house. Cat scratches a lot, but we don’t. Need recommendation for iradication of fleas in house, just in case and what’s best for Sissy. She’s reacted with crying and trying to reach the spot where I’ve put Meijer brand flea killer. Don’t want to see her suffer anymore, so I quit putting anything on her. Need to be holistic about it, ‘cuz I’m a holistic person and don’t need to be exposed to chemicals myself…..
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:18 pm
try cedar product from www. cedarcide.com or you can try collars from http://www.holisticfamilyandpets.com Flea busters is natural product for home you can find on line
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:25 am
Flea Busters is good for the home, even if you don’t have carpet. Try using Skin So Soft from Avon. It’s supposed to repel fleas and mosquitos on animals just as in humans, and i believe it’s non-toxic. Just make sure to read the bottle. This is supposed to be a secret, but try it. Good luck
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
Thanks for sharing. I have found avon skin so soft diluted in water quite helpful as well for flea control especially in young or weakened animals that may not be able to tolorate the topical pesticides.
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I few weeks ago I spend $230 at the animal emergency room on our Shih Tzu puppy, Bailey, trying to find out why she was twitching and crying. It was due to over the counter flea and tick medicine purchased by my husband. It was a very horrific experience and I would not want to see another human and their pet go through it. It was vet who figured out the problem and now we have our happy Bailey back. I wished I had come across this page a few weeks ago. Love this page. My pup love the Science Diet from Petco . Is there something better
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:19 pm
I prefer natural diets such as instincts and/or halo from 1800petmeds. Other natural diets like pet guard or wysong are also excellent choices.
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:32 am
It seems that nobody on here likes Science Diet or Purina for some reason. Just keep in mind they have been around for like 50-60 years and have been doing nutrition research for all that time. I think it’s funny that everyone reccommends these natural diets that have only been out for the past 2-3 years. I doubt they know SO MUCH MORE about nutrition in those 3 years than the companies that have been around for over half a decade!!!
Feed your dog what she’s eating and don’t go changing it up for this new one or that new one. If you change the food to frequently you can make your dog a finicky or picky eater, which is a ton of fun you don’t want to deal with! I also found that MOST “natural” foods aren’t really natural, it’s the presertatives that are natural (and that’s all they need to do to label a food as all natural, when it’s not). So be careful with what you buy, and you might want to stick with a brand you know and trust. Not some come lately holistic or ‘natural’ food that may or may not actually be all natural…
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
Many of the diets that are the big sellers out of vet offices or supermarket are big multibillion dollar companies involved in other industries besides the pet food industry. Vets get next to no training on nutrition in vet school Much of what is told comes from pet food sales reps rather than what carnivores should eat. Try looking at foods like Halo or Wysong or Pet guard and just compare the ingredients to some of those you mention. I have found wysong and pet guard to have performed wonderfully for holistic oriented vets nationwide for a long time when changed off the commonly purchased ones at stores or vet offices.
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John Reply:
November 4th, 2010 at 6:56 am
Funny that a professional who has so clearly pimped himself out to 1-800-petmeds frowns upon vets choices being influenced by big brands
Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
November 4th, 2010 at 9:27 am
I am sorry you feel that way. Everyone is entitled to their opinions.
We have always used the medications from the vet. After moving across country and only one income at the time I decided to use the Hartz from Wal-mart on our cat and out Beagle. The cat was fine but the dog began to run around whining within an hour of the application. We washed as much of the medication off as we could. He was up all night and so were we. I have told all our family and friends what happened so they can avoid the same mistake we made. It was the most horrible thing to watch and not be able to help him .
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Michael Dym, VMD Reply:
September 11th, 2010 at 11:20 pm
Thanks for sharing your experience. That is why I always prefer the time tested topical products like front line plus or advantage which you can get economically withour prescription from 1800petmeds.
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Tea tree oil can be used in moderation in dogs, and only if overused or not used according to manufacturers is potentially toxic. Cats are more sensitive to tee tree oil which I always caution feline guardians.
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My dog Rudy who is a Sheppard,Lab,& Ridgeback mix, has blisters between his front toes on the webbed part of his paes. On the top side of his paws, he is losing hair, and the skin is red. Does anybody here have any idea what could be causing this? I cannot afford a vet at this time and need a solution to get him healed. He also limps on his left foot, which is the one that is infected most. I can’t stand to see him suffer like this HELP!
Thanks,
Butch S.
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Trish Vet Tech Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:51 am
There’s a few things that can be causing this condition. Most dogs chew or lick their paws (which cause hair loss, redness, swelling, etc.) due to inhaliation allergies, which are manifested in itchy skin/feet in animals, unlike humans that sneeze and wheeze. Observe to see if he’s going after his feet in this way. If this is the case, then antihistimines and NSAIDS may be the cure….which means a trip to the vet. You could try giving Benadryl (there should be a mg/lb conversion somewhere on the bottle, maybe) or Children’s Benadryl- to be safe, or ask a pharmacist for the correct dose for a 100 lb person (or however much your pet weighs). You can also soak the paws in Epson salts, like humans do.
Another cause (though it sounds like allergies) could be masses growing on the pads. Though unlikely, i have seen it before. It looked like a little blister (though got very big very fast, in the matter of a month), all the hair fell off of it and it became red on top/black on bottom. it got so big it was even bigger than the actual pads of the feet.
Your problems sound more like allergies (very common where i live in FL) and you might want to save up for the vet. We have something here called Care Credit that you can use for medical bills (human and animal), you might want to look into it. Because without proper treatment your dog will continue to itch and lick and bite his feet, which will turn them dark brown from the saliva (even if he’s a dark color, they will get darker).
Another thing it could be is a Lick Granuloma, which you will probably need antibiotics for. Try the allergy suggestion at the top with the Epson soak like once a day and see what happens. But deff. get some type of antihistamine in him to stop the itch. We use a drug called Temaril-P that’s basically a antihistamine, anti-itch & anti-inflamatory with a tiny amount of corticosteroids in it. it’s Rx only, but works great! Good luck!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 10:57 pm
All wonderful points. I do find that most of these cases are indeed inhalent/contact allergy or food allergy related. Antihistamines and/or low dose pred or temaril p is often needed in severe cases during allergy seasons. Dietary trials are worth while as well. Masses are possible but less common. I like the idea about epsom salts. Also wiping allergic dogs feet off before coming in can help reduce allergic reactions.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 29th, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Most likely secondary bacterial or less likely yeast infections from underlying allergies. Also possible to have overactive immune response to skin called autoimmune disease causing these blisters. Best to have vet exam and assessment to sort these out. Many of these dogs will need oral antibiotics and/or oral prednisone if immune mediated illness. Biopsy is sometimes needed for definitive diagnosis.
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Sure as my \dog’s legal guardian\ I can do everything but giving heartworm meds without a vet’s permission. I still believe it’s a money scheme and not the true \concern\ for OUR dogs. I LOVE my dogs and would never hurt them. They’re my kids so why would I give them something that would hurt them? I know my dogs better than any vet (just like my own kids) and it’s wrong to force us to have a vet visit just so we can buy heartworm meds. It’s still the same answer…..if they have heartworms (with or without the meds) they will die. If they don’t get the meds, they’ll still get heartworms and die. So by withholding the meds, you’re trying to hurt our dogs. There’s no reason for withholding the meds. Bottom line….it’s a scheme. The end!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
September 30th, 2010 at 10:58 pm
Your point of view is well taken and acknowledged.
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We switched from Vet Rx Frontline to “Grocery Brand” Harts Advance Flea and Tick because …
1. Frontline gave my 4 year previous Sheltie immediate stomach problems – vomit and runny anal discharge.
2. Frontline gave my 2 year Boston occasional same effects above.
3. Any thing from my vet is $$$$ and althought they say they price match to the point of not losing $$$ … they dont allow any Rx from Pet Meds.
I now have a new Sheltie pup and would reconsider but
our vet said the Harts is milder with differ ingredients that may wear off sooner. This might be good.
How do the ingredients differ and what effects should they produce ?
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
October 26th, 2010 at 11:38 am
Different main ingredient. I would contact hartz company to find out difference. The hartz product may be effective for you. Just that sometimes I have seen occasional side effects from over the counter topical flea meds, however if hartz works well for you, by all means stick with it. Similar type of reactions can be seen i .e upset stomach, etc.
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I used over the counter flea meds on my cat and she became so paranoid she wouldn’t even step on the carpet anymore. So I switched to Advantage and she was paranoid for 1 week but it did not work for ticks. I’m afraid to add another dose because she has finally come out of be paranoid. But I do have to switch again because it doesn’t work on ticks. I don’t think switching all the time is good for her.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
November 12th, 2010 at 3:36 pm
Some cats are sensitive to any topical products. You can try natural products as well which may not work as well but might be worth a shot given sensitivity. Try one of collars from http://www.holisticfamilyandpets.com if she reacts to all of the topicals.
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I cant speak for the other sources but can only say that the heatguard from 1800petmeds is the one made by the drug company. Your observations about status of over the counter meds/drugs is duly noted. The price matching game, etc has gone on for years between vets and the on line pharmacies. Most states however require that vets supply a written prescription to any client who asks for heartworm prevention medicine from an online pharmacy like 1800petmeds, as long as pet has active current client/patient relationship with your veterinarian and has received a heartworm test within a 1-2 year period of time in most cases.
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This is all really very simple.
Every brand is a PESTICIDE.
Yes, just like those we buy at Home Depot with the giant labels about toxicity to people and pets if we want to spray our homes.
My dog nearly died from Promeris, but all brands are PESTICIDES — that’s why the EPA, not the FDA regulates them.
Given how poorly they work and toxic they are, I don’t use anything on my dogs.
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RE: NRUSSELL Are you kidding..How dare you even think PetMeds would tell us anything that would ever threaten our pets? This is the 1st time the 1st website that doesn’t ask me if I liked what they said 7 if I did to pay them a certain amount instead this dr.actually explained everything in detail as far as seeking a holistic dr. for help,if one is that paranoid as far as the buck,you have to trust “something!” heartworms,issue over& over..when your negativity is just as bad! Are we to buy nothing? Should we all listen to you ,by sharing the same paranoia re: money? I agree that not all vets are so nice in fact I almost sued one for intimidation,& dormant rage”{who knew this moron was also a maniac too} screaming out loud all over a cat that had a “CHIP” but didn’t bother to ask the X owners if the cat had any health issues.allergies instead he threatened to kick me out if I asked him “why didn’t they look for her over 3 months+?”{live in same community} igniored all posts..just let her get away?no way I don’t just loose my pets! awareness is normal,what kind of people are that subtle as to say “oh yeah she got out” what? so what do I give my 3 yr old cat female for fleas while indoors?Thank you
does she need some vitamins for immune system heartgueard?AND what to do about dander {Black}cat.also please tell me hard food “low ph balace,good or should they have both wet food like tuna in water w/ small am’t of olive oil instaed of the oil the tuna comes with re: urinery issues{no thanks!} my beloved Rustie had one stone,thank God but that stone almost killed him..
Do ALL cats end up w/ urinery issues my friend doesn’t have this problem,,so what food will she eat
Should she eat hard food is not good forever I read this,,Thank you!
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This poor little orphan unloved bordering on ferell I swear,the more I know her,,the vet wouldn’t allow me to contact the X owner,,they live in the same community{hate community living after living on Long Island ny over 30+yrs don’t believe what they say about “The Country Life”unless you’re rich or have a great am’t of intyerest each month from substancial monies.{income} the onlt vet here & he cared more re; the cat’s found Chip than he did about her health,by not giving me any info or asking if she had allegies finally I spoke to owner passive saying “yeah she got out” I wanted to tell her how I really felt like why did you invest in a fancy Chip meanwhile not answwered one post on one ttree?creepo’s 24 Hour Pet Watch”pa] said the law staed because they didn’t look for her no way would they get her back get her back? forget it they didn’t want her to begin with,telling the vet they work all day {8+hrs outside?} if she’s attached now to the cat she can keep her she’ll just go back there anyway [which is true but this immature whench Nicole refuses to send me her signed over form so the Chip #{& my name] could be switched to me..she’ll never “oh yeah she got out”,,but isn’t this the princeipal? She refuses to answer my calls! The volenterrs at Pike County Humane Society knew all along who she was..trying to protect her identity not the fact that I knew nothing re:her health issues volenteers are martyrs many times the shelter is depressing don’t know if the nastiness from the girls there are creating such oppresive atmosphere or if the sad sack dogs faces are just because they’re sooo happy it is great need of work,nobody speaks out here in eastern Pa I believe people ARE like their towns The X owners refuse to give me the signed paper for 24 Hour pet watch” upion agreement that the Chip goes in my name,,”Oh she got out” was her sentiment devoid of emotion the cat was bordering on ferell from lack of love what I wanted to tell her I couldn’t until now never a thnk you for taking care of her never one word,one humble,normal emotion from this whench!What good was the fancy Chip & the money they spent when they didn’t care if the cat was gone she’s onlt 3 yrs old,!! I know she wasn’t aware of what a kiss was,,right,a kiss,her head actually backed away,as if to say what was that? These people are discusting she lied telling me she was an indoor cat no way she pined too long wanting to go out now she no longer “roams” around,I can just imagine the locked doors she had to face each night she didn’t leave me there she was runninbg back to the car when I got home this was before I made her an indoor cat,but she’s bored I must buy her a cat tree,,we’re snowed in,what could I do to appease her boredome until then?
she sleeps allot that’s good,,but where did she sleep before when I took her ,,she slept for 10 hrs {sleep deprived} I thought she was dead! This little girl is no longer alon no animal is immune from “recognizing love & affection” I don’t like the word”LAP DOG” or LAP CAT..NO animal is just for ones LAP..They know what love is when they get it just as they rememebr when they didn’t!
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I’d like to know more about Capstar and Program(?) — results from cat guardians etc. Have two felines; 1)female shorthair tortoiseshell w/siamese ancestry,8yrs & 2)male Maine Coon, 2yr old. Advantage doesn’t work on them now, so am considering Frontline or Capstar. Female/Gidget not afraid of anything and even tolerates flea treatment well. Male/Tiggar was found in bushes at gated comm. @ 6 wks, only1 lb, very scared due to situation and raccoons. Both are indoor only. Something recently seriously frightened him, probably while on front porch, so he is keeping himself in our bdrm/brm ( only ventured out once, then back in). Have to take food/water to him.
Advice welcomed.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
February 15th, 2011 at 1:19 pm
Program is a noninsectidal product that sterilizes adult fleas and breaks the flea life cycle at that point but is not a repellant. Capstar is a topical insectidal product often useful during active flea infestations that kills adult fleas, etc within a few hours. It is usually used short term during an acute infestation usually in combination with program for more longer term flea control.
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I have a 2 year old germanshepperd/rockweller mixed male dog. I think, don’t no for sure, but he has always been very activie, but know he is just dragging around and not being so playful as usual. I think he may have gotten into some mice poision. what should I do to make him feel better
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
February 21st, 2011 at 5:31 pm
If you are concerned about possible mouse poison exposure, always best to have veterinary exam and possibly blood work to check clotting times as may need special antidoting medicine.
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I have 10 beautiful cats and love them all. There is a woods area in back of my house and on the side of property. My cats get exercize and scratch their old claws off on the trees and stay healthy. The problem is that I have to spend upward from $100.00 pr. mo. on flee prevention. These cats were all strays that other people left behind when they moved away.Please, can’t you come up with a lower price to help us?
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EL Reply:
February 26th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
The cost of Medical and support for pets {Flea Tick Heartworm Vet other} often contributes to the number of strays in the world.
People just give up on anything rhat requires comitment.
My previous shelter rescue was a perfect full breed Sheltie that was turned out to walk the streets with no tags and no one looking for her.
Few people care and Vets are very bottom line cost cautious.
It will only get worst as the world and economic conditions sour.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
February 27th, 2011 at 7:02 pm
Thanks for sharing. Unfortunately medical costs are high for both people and animals during tough economic times.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
February 27th, 2011 at 7:02 pm
Dont know about lower price for good flea control products. Unfortunately most of the good ones for this many cats will cost a decent amount.
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Are you sure you are a veterinarian? Capstar in NOT a topical, it’s an oral med.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
March 3rd, 2011 at 9:18 am
Sorry for error. It was typo. Thanks for pointing it out about capstar. I am aware it is oral.
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Gail Reply:
March 3rd, 2011 at 3:22 pm
Sorry for the snarky comments. You can delete them if you want.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
March 4th, 2011 at 9:01 am
No problem. Thanks for pointing out to me.
For better prices go to pet-supplies-inc.com.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
March 3rd, 2011 at 9:17 am
Stick to tried and reliable 1800petmeds source of products.
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I couldn’t agree more with this post. To me, it doesn’t matter about the prices, it’s all about the quality.. When we think of our own body, we generally put the best products in, if we’re conscious of our health, so why not give our adorable pets the same!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
March 16th, 2011 at 7:14 pm
Amen to your statements.
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Dr. VMD
Curious as to how you prefer to present the FRONTLINE product now that Fipronil is a generic drug and being exposed by many animal health manufacturers…..
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
March 26th, 2011 at 11:49 am
With generics, there can be variation in absorption, etc and I always prefer the track records of a given product, however if expenses a problem, certainly less expensive generics can often be tried.
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What about the generic medication? Is it worth the risk to give generic medication to the pets. Since, for some pet owners, numerous medications that usually are prescribed by vets are not that affordable.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 25th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
Generic medication is usually equivalent to name brand meds, but with grocery brand flea products we are most of time talking about different main ingredients and other inert ingredients that are potentially toxic to pets more than name brand products.
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I would just like to say that vet’s aren’t out there just to make money. We went to school for 8 years and paid $250,000 in student loans (yes, that’s right, it’s that much money) because we care about pets. And we barely make enough to make our student loan payments, but that’s another discussion. I just want to say that we require heartworm testing before selling preventative because if you pet is heartworm positive and gets sick from the preventative because we cannot test them, we can get sued. And don’t tell me that you wouldn’t sue, because the clients most likely to deny heartworm testing and think it’s just cause vets want to make more money are the most likely to sue us if something goes wrong. Believe me. Honestly, our profession is emotionally, mentally, and physically draining. It is HARD work and we get little thanks for what we do. That’s why it’s so frustrating when people think we are in it for the money. Because we’re in it because we want to help pets and people. End of story. We do things correctly and things that are scientifically valid cause, yeah, we went to school for a long time and we’re doctors. So we know better than you. So listen to us. You just might learn something useful.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 29th, 2011 at 9:38 pm
Thanks for sharing. Make sure steak and chicken are lean without fat or condiments on them.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
June 29th, 2011 at 9:39 pm
Thanks for sharing your sentiments about vets as we are all in it because our love for the human animal bond, as well as promoting health at salaries that are hardly what human physicians make in most cases.
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Can you divide red frontline 89 > plus up for a small dog? I have the red frontline but no longer have that dog but do have a 10 pound maltipoo
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
July 11th, 2011 at 5:09 pm
I usually recommend following only drug insert directions and dont recommend dividing dose as difficult to tell how much you are applying.
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I tried Hartz once because Frontline Plus was sold out everywhere in my local area. I hoped it would be effective since it was only $14.99 for 3. Well, my dog didn’t have a bad reaction, but the stuff was worthless, (and greasy!). Someone pointed that the packaging never claims that it prevents fleas and ticks. It’s true, it is very vague in it’s claims. Don’t every buy Hartz or any cheap brands, they are a scam!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
August 2nd, 2011 at 10:41 pm
Hi Steve I have not found this product effective either as well as i have seen reactions in my experience and opinion. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
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Wow great idea!! I really like this blog because it seems that the pets I am looking for is fit to my pet last year.
Paws Pet Supermarket Coupons
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Good idea..I really like this blog because I have learned a lot about this blog..Thank you.
Paws Pet Supermarket Coupons
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
August 20th, 2011 at 11:48 am
You are very welcome. Please share information about this service to your friends and family.
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Good article but glaring errors. Products that are not sold online are not listed. Examples would be Trifexis/ Corfortis and Vectra3d. These are newer products that are sold only through veterinary clinics. They work better as they are new. The older products ARE losing efficacy rapidly.
I am a veterinarian practicing in the real world and I deal with product failures every day on most of the products mentioned. I agree that grocery store brands don’t work, so the premis of the article is good, just the big glaring ommission.
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I have used Revolution with no problems and found it to be very effective. Flea, tick, heartworm, & ear mite all in one! My Cane Corso lived her whole life & never saw a flea or tick! She also never had any reactions or problems. I highly recommend Revolution!
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
November 9th, 2011 at 7:29 pm
Thanks for sharing. Revolution has indeed been a find product for many.
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Helen,
Please go to the website http://www.Dinovite.com. This is an awesome natural product which treats nutritional deficiencies in pets. Yeast is a by-product when an animals digestive system is not balanced. They now offer a liquid form that you add to your pets food. Most animals love the taste. I realize your pet has medical issues and special needs with it’s diet but usually the diet is the main culprit. It probably is a good idea to check out the book Kit recommended below: Foods Pets Die For by Ann Martin. Please check out the Dinovite website and good luck.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
December 15th, 2011 at 3:28 pm
Thanks Lisa for sharing the information about this exciting product for pets.
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