I see many sick cats and dogs (mostly dogs) coming through the door at MPN, with owners at a loss as to what to do next. Whilst we see so much disease and every pet is different, there are some set things I always recommend to everyone, that are imperative to your pet's health. This is to detox their life and GET RID OF THE CHEMICALS. I have heard several sad stories about reactions and disease caused by treatments, mostly neurological damage and death from flea treatments and worming stories where the dog went into fits and endured life long seizures. If we aren't personally meant to handle these chemicals, then they shouldn't be going on or in our pet's bodies.
Conventional chemical flea and tick treatments from your vet or over the counter, are highly toxic pesticides that accumulate in the blood, skin and tissue.
When you give your dog these chemical treatments, they work systemically (throughout the body). They are absorbed into his/her blood so when a flea or tick feeds on your dog’s blood, they also eat the chemical Isoxazolines, and become paralysed, eventually dying.
Both fleas and ticks have to bite and latch on, to suck your dogs blood, before becoming paralysed and dying from the pesticides. It can take hours upon hours before the fleas and ticks die. This allows sufficient time for the fleas to become bothersome and the ticks to spread disease. The problem with these chemicals is to kill the parasites, they have to poison your cat or dog first.
These awful chemical treatments can also cause neurological issues and permanent damage in cats and dogs. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) put out a warning on Isoxazoline flea and tick products in September 2018, warning on the potential neurological adverse reactions.
The side effects range from, diarrhoea, vomiting, lethargy, seizures, convulsions, skin disorders, ataxia and death.
Although this warning has been given, sadly the FDA still states that they work with manufacturers and deem it safe with side effects now listed to make this a known danger? Apparently to note dangers within the labelling and making statements on potential dangers, now makes this a non safety issue. I'm still scratching my head.
Any safety data on these products are only tested a few months, so we don't even know about the long term implications.
Those treatments containingIsoxazoline:
- Bravecto (fluralaner) tablets for dogs
- Bravecto (fluralaner) topical solution for cats and dogs
- Credelio (lotilaner) tablets for dogs
- Nexgard (afoxalaner) tablets for dogs
- Simparica (sarolaner) tablets for dogs
- Revolution Plus (selamectin and sarolaner topical solution) for cats and used in the prevention of heartworms
Natural Solutions
Using a natural preventative is far safer and effective than conventional means. In using chemical treatments, these are designed to kill the parasite once on the host, whereas the natural prevention aims to repel fleas and ticks, so your cat or dog doesn't even become a host. This is a more effective approach at preventing disease if done appropriately.
To protect against fleas, ticks and worms, there are several natural and effective options you can consider so please read on.
Flea, tick and worming products
Flea products and tick products are incredibly toxic and overload the body when the immune system is already under challenge. Fleas aren’t a great concern although very bothersome and cause discomfort and allergies in your pet, but ticks are a problem. Make sure after every walk you check your dog thoroughly and invest in a tick removal kit if you are in a zone for ticks (there's a tick key listed down below). They can be dangerous to your dog as they carry disease. There are lots of natural products out there. Rotating them is important as fleas and ticks are adaptable and you need to make sure your pets are not a desirable host.
Homemade Itchy Dog Spray of apple cider vinegar mixed spritz potion can be an effective flea and tick deterrent;
1.250mls of organic Apple cidar vinegar and preferably from the mother (this means Apple cider vinegar that is simply unrefined, unpasteurised. unfiltered and from the mother).
2.250mls of distilled water, filtered water, bottled water but definitely not tap water.
3.Fresh chamomile (organic preferably) or a teabag steeped in boiling water for 30 minutes (to be added as part of the 250mls water).
4.10 drops of Organic lavender aromatherapy oil and/or a few drops of essential oils such as lemon eucalyptus, tea tree, sandalwood, clary sage and patchouli. If you decide to use this on the cat too (avoid the aromatherapy oils due to the phenolics: this can be toxic to cats).
5.Water spray bottle. I prefer brown glass but we don’t have to go fancy here. Just make sure its stored in a cool dry place and if plastic, doesn’t sweat as PCB’s could leak into your lovely potion.
Alternatively, you can go for a spray already made up from Greens for healthy pets called Don’t Bug Me!
Hedge row hounds offers a wonderful herbal mix called natures bounty, that is easily and safely added to food.
Diatomaceous earth is a good effective option although if your dog has sensitivities, allergies or any breathing problems, tread with caution. Food grade diatomaceous earth is made from teeny, tiny sea creatures, often found in places like the white cliffs of Dover. It dehydrates and suffocates the parasites and their eggs, thus killing them. Please ensure this is a good quality, food grade product as it can have high levels of toxicity. It can be used to sprinkle around the home and dusted through your dog's coat. Care should be taken not to breath in the powder (caution with your dog too).
Another lovely spray with beautiful essentials, sprayed before you go on a walk and perhaps afterwards, can be helpful in warding off critters. Biospotix do natural spot ons and collars.
A natural flea collar or amber collar can be a great deterrents and non-toxic.
Amber collars work by creating a magnetic charge over the dogs coat keeping the fleas and ticks away! 100% natural, long lasting solution to the problem that is completely safe for use in the home environment. Amber collar has a dual action in treating ticks and fleas. Extremely popular in Europe, this sturdy, 100% authentic Baltic amber collar can be safely worn by dogs and cats. This is not a stand alone product but used in conjunction with other sprays or herbal feed.
If you do spy a tick on your dog, this tick removal key is something that can easily and safely remove the head of the tick from your dog's body.
Natural Worming options
Ground pumpkin seeds can help to prevent worms or help to expel them. Pumpkin seeds are from the GOURD family and contain an amino acid call cucurbitin and a carboxypyrrolidinparalys. This can be given in food as a natural preventive, I do like the little research we have and would suggest it used in conjunction with an amber collar for example.
Raw and organic are best and if not already ground, this can be done in a small and efficient blender or coffee roaster. Suggested amount would be 1/2 a teaspoon per 10kg of weight, once a day as a preventative. To rid the body of worms, up the serve to at least double for several days.
VermX herbal biscuits or liquid can also be used as a preventative measure for worms also.
If you wish to avoid worming due to toxicity, you can buy worm egg count kits. Advised to do every 6 months.
I hope this has helped in some way, removing these toxic chemicals is so important for your pet's health. As an owner, one should research all products and be due diligent. To find out more about consultations, check us out.
Consultations
Ali x
FAQs
What is the best natural flea and worm treatment for dogs? ›
The Best Natural Flea Treatments For Dogs
Use a natural shampoo like citrus Castile soap each week followed by a final rinse with ACV. For this rinse, use 1 part vinegar to 10 parts water. Keeping your dog's coat clean with a flea comb is essential to getting rid of fleas.
Bravecto chews (it also comes as a topical) offer protection from fleas and ticks for 8-12 weeks per dose. It uses the active ingredient fluralaner, which kills adult fleas and ticks. Bravecto also requires a prescription from your veterinarian.
How can I get my dog to worm and flea naturally? ›Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar is your bug buster. It's cheap to buy at no more than £3-4 a bottle. For the outside of your dog, AC vinegar creates a more acidic environment which fleas detest. Make up a rinse to use weekly on your dog.
Is there a combined flea and worm treatment for dogs? ›Advocate Spot-on for Small Dogs is a broad spectrum combined flea and worm treatment. It is effective against fleas, flea larvae, lungworm, roundworm, hookworm, whipworm and heartworm.
How often should you give your dog flea and worm treatment? ›You should de-flea and worm your pet once a month. Not only will this prevent them from experiencing the side effects of either condition, but it'll allow your pet to be completely protected and free from suffering.
Does apple cider vinegar help deworm dogs? ›Apple cider vinegar has numerous health benefits and is known to be effective in treating worms in dogs. Unlike other vinegar, apple cider vinegar increases the alkaline levels in the intestines of the dog. As a result, it creates an inhospitable environment for worms and other parasites.
What kills fleas naturally? ›Natural Remedy: Diatomaceous Earth
This talc-like powder is made from silica, the same stuff that makes up sand. You can sprinkle it on carpets, bedding, and furniture. Let it sit for several hours, then vacuum it up. It kills fleas by drying them out.
While Apple Cider Vinegar does not kill fleas, it may repel them because fleas dislike its smell and taste. One of the most simple ways to use this natural flea repellent is to make a solution out of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
What is the best non toxic flea treatment for dogs? ›Combine 1 quart of water, 1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, and 1 cup of baby shampoo or liquid dish soap. Use this mixture to bathe your dog once or twice a month. Vinegar kills fleas and ticks on contact and can prevent future infestations.
What is the least toxic flea and tick prevention for dogs? ›If chemical products are necessary for additional flea or tick control, NRDC recommends s-methoprene or pyriproxyfen, which are less toxic ingredients—but read the labels carefully because some products use them with other, more harmful pesticides.
What is the number 1 flea treatment 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.
What human food gives dogs worms? ›The worms commonly found in dogs, listed above, are not acquired from people food, with the possible exception of tapeworms in contaminated meat.
What's the most common way dogs get worms? ›Eating Feces
Transmission of intestinal worms (hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms) commonly occurs when your dog ingests contaminated soil or feces containing eggs or immature worms (larvae) that have been passed from other infected animals in the environment.
NO! People may believe because worms are usually harmless in humans, that they're probably not too dangerous in dogs either and that they can rid themselves of them, but this is not the case. Dogs cannot get rid of worms themselves. Medical assistance will be required to some extent.
Do dogs poop out worms after dewormer? ›The Deworming Process after a Few Days
You may be surprised to still see live worms in your dog's feces after deworming them, but this is normal. While this can be an unpleasant image, it's actually a good thing — it means the worms are no longer living inside your dog!
Pet insurance typically doesn't cover routine treatment, like flea and worm treatment, so this is something you'll need to stay on top of yourself. You may be able to find a separate health plan, that covers things like flea and worm treatments.
What flea treatment also kills worms? ›Bravecto works fast and continues to protect against fleas for 3 months, paralysis ticks for 10 weeks and heartworm for 2 months, plus treats intestinal worms+ and ear mites.
Do dogs really need worming every month? ›Pets should be wormed every month up to 6 months of age, then 4 times a year after that for Roundworm and Tapeworm. Lungworm treatment for dogs needs to be done monthly. Worming treatments can either be done at home or by the vet in the practice.
How long do dogs need flea and worm treatment? ›This depends on which product you use. We have flea spot-on treatments for dogs and cats that can be applied monthly or tablets that last for one month for cats and 1-3 months for dogs. Worming tablets can be given every three months for adult dogs and cats.
What are the symptoms of worms in dogs? ›- Diarrhea.
- Abdominal pain.
- Weight loss.
- Vomiting.
- Poor coat appearance.
- Pot-bellied appearance.
- Lethargy.
- Dehydration.
What is a homemade dewormer for dogs? ›
Herbs For Pets recommends this combination for worms in dogs. 2 parts unsalted, raw pumpkin seeds 1 part garlic powder 1 part fennel seeds 1 part yucca root Mix the ingredients together. You can grind the pumpkin seed or leave them whole. Add 1 tsp per pound of food daily.
What is a natural way to deworm a dog? ›Veggies like carrots, beetroot, banana, apple, coconut, and papaya are rich in fiber and act as natural dewormers. Healthy dog treats with the goodness of such fruits and vegetables are extremely beneficial for their diet.
Does turmeric get rid of worms in dogs? ›Turmeric has four compounds that help to get rid of dog worms. In addition, turmeric repairs the damage that may have caused to your pup's intestine, thereby improving the gut condition. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties that help your dog to combat the internal parasites.
What kills fleas permanently? ›Choose an insecticide that contains both an adulticide (kills adult fleas), such as permethrin, and an insect growth regulator (kills the eggs, larvae, and pupae), such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen.
What smells will keep fleas away? ›Natural flea repellents such as citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, and geraniol may naturally repel fleas. If your pet doesn't mind a spray bottle, dilute a few drops of your chosen repellent into 10-13 fl oz of water and spray directly onto your pet's coat.
What kills fleas immediately? ›You want to immediately kill any fleas removed from your pup's fur by dunking them in hot, soapy water. If you try to crush or flush these sneaky insects, they might surprise you with their jumping expertise—they're amazing escape artists. Bathe your pet with warm water and mild soap.
What is the best homemade flea killer? ›Create a flea spray by mixing 4 liters of vinegar, 2 liters of water, 500 ml of lemon juice and 250 ml of witch hazel in a large spray bottle. Before applying the product around your home, you should vacuum properly, emptying the contents into an outside bin, and wash any bedding/cushions that could be infested.
Can I spray my dog with white vinegar and water for fleas? ›In short: using vinegar solution or white vinegar on your pet's fur or in their drinking water will not kill fleas. There is a chance ACV could repel fleas because they don't like the taste, but it is only a mild detergent and is not the best flea remedy. ACV should not be your first choice for natural flea treatment.
Can I spray my dog with vinegar and water for fleas? ›Fleas don't like the smell or taste of it, so they're likely to avoid your pet if they have it on their fur. Dilute apple cider vinegar in water and add it to a spray bottle. If your pet doesn't enjoy getting sprayed, dip a brush in the mixture and distribute it into their fur with a grooming session.
What is the safest heartworm and flea prevention for dogs? ›- Advantage Multi. ...
- NexGard. ...
- Bravecto Chews. ...
- Simparica Plus. ...
- Frontline Plus. ...
- K9 Advantix II. ...
- Sentinel. ...
- Panacur C. Panacur C Canine Dewormer is the best Heartworm, flea, tick, and parasite protection.
What flea treatment do vets recommend? ›
- Show All Flea Treatments for Dogs and Cats. VetUK Flea and Tick Treatment. ...
- Advantage Flea Treatments. FRONTLINE Spot On for Cats and Dogs. ...
- Household Flea Sprays. Seresto Flea and Tick Control Collars. ...
- Capstar Flea Tablets. ...
- Fiproclear Flea Treatments. ...
- M&C Flea Control. ...
- Flea Bombs & Fumigators.
Coconut oil contains a fatty acid called lauric acid, a component that kills fleas. The fat covers the flea's exoskeleton and essentially suffocates the pest. Only apply coconut oil to your dog's coat outdoors. Because the acid works as a natural flea repellent, the pests may leap out of your dog's fur.
What do holistic vets recommend for flea and tick control? ›Topical products with neem and lavender spray (2 drops of oil per 1 ounce of water with a drop or two of dish soap per bottle). For severe infestations use Frontline with a Seresto Collar.
What is a non toxic flea medication? ›Citronella, tea tree, peppermint, eucalyptus, and neem are all great essential oils for getting rid of fleas. Add 10 to 20 drops to a spray bottle filled with water and spray on your pet's coat, taking care to avoid their eyes.
Is oral or topical flea prevention better? ›You may find that the oral delivery method creates less of a mess than the topical route, while also eliminating concerns over skin reactions to the active ingredients. But oral medications may also cost more than topical treatments, and prescriptions will need to be refilled regularly to maintain constant protection.
Where is the best place to put flea treatment on dogs? ›Choose a spot on the back of your dog's neck, ideally by the base of the skull. Part your dog's fur so you can see their skin and apply a small blob directly to the skin. If you have a large dog, consider applying two small blobs, about a centimetre apart.
How can I get flea medicine without a vet? ›Over-the-Counter preventatives are available without a prescription. The reason some flea/tick topical preventatives are in this category is that they aren't absorbed into your pet's body the same way a prescription medication is; hence, no prescription is required.
Is flea treatment better from the vets? ›This means they might not only be itchy and irritating for your cat! Thankfully, there are lots of flea treatments available to prevent and kill fleas quickly which are very easy to give your cat. Products from your vet are much more effective than those from shop shelves.
What kills worms in dogs instantly? ›Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Apple cider vinegar can be effective at killing worms in your dog. Unlike other vinegars, it increases the alkaline levels in your dog's intestines.
If you see worms in your dog food, it's most likely not worms but larvae of the Indian meal moth. These moths and their larvae feed on dry food, including dry dog food. The larvae will often leave telltale signs such as silk webbings around infested food sources.
Do carrots get rid of worms in dogs? ›
Several fruits and vegetables can help you rid your dog of worms. Coarsely chopped carrots can help your pet get rid of worms as they scrape the sides of the intestines.
Can dogs get worms from wet grass? ›Hookworms. This common parasite has hook-like teeth, which accounts for the name. They attach themselves to your dog's intestinal lining and breed thousands of eggs within just a few days. Your dog can pick up hookworms easily by walking through wet grass or contaminated soil.
Can dogs get worms from the backyard? ›If dogs accidentally eat these eggs — by sniffing or licking the ground, or by eating dirt or grass — they can become infected. Your dog can contract hookworms by accidentally ingesting hookworm larvae found in the soil. They can also get hookworms through close skin contact with larvae left in soil or sand.
What are the first signs of heartworms in dogs? ›Signs of heartworm disease may include a mild persistent cough, reluctance to exercise, fatigue after moderate activity, decreased appetite, and weight loss. As heartworm disease progresses, pets may develop heart failure and the appearance of a swollen belly due to excess fluid in the abdomen.
Does apple cider vinegar deworm dogs? ›Apple cider vinegar has numerous health benefits and is known to be effective in treating worms in dogs. Unlike other vinegar, apple cider vinegar increases the alkaline levels in the intestines of the dog. As a result, it creates an inhospitable environment for worms and other parasites.
Do dogs feel sick when they have worms? ›Roundworm larvae can migrate to the lungs and cause coughing and other respiratory symptoms, sometimes even serious conditions such as pneumonia. Vomiting or diarrhea. Roundworms can cause digestive upsets such as vomiting and diarrhea. Diarrhea can range from mild to severe.
What happens if worms go untreated in dogs? ›If left untreated, worms can damage your dog's internal organs and lead to loss of consciousness and death. If you suspect that your dog has worms, take it to your nearest veterinary office. Most intestinal worms are easy to treat and your veterinarian will prescribe a medication based on the diagnosis.
What is the best flea tick and heartworm medication for dogs? ›Panacur C Canine Dewormer is the best Heartworm, flea, tick, and parasite protection. This product treats roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and giardia in dogs.
What dog wormer do vets use? ›We recommend MILBEMAX tablets for this. MILBEMAX is available as a palatable tablet and is effective against roundworm, lungworm, tapeworm and numerous other species of worm. Puppies – starting at 4 to 8 weeks of age, deworming should be done monthly, until 12 months old.
What do vets recommend for worming dogs? ›Dog owners are generally recommended to treat their dogs for worms once every 3 months for adult dogs. New puppies require worming once every 2-3 weeks until they're 12 weeks old, and then they should be wormed monthly until they reach 6 months old, at which age they can move onto the adult schedule.
What is the number one flea and tick medicine 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.
Which is safer for dogs Nexgard or Frontline? ›Both products are safe for dogs when following directions and Nexgard has been approved by the FDA to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations. However, unlike Frontline Plus, Nexgard has not yet been evaluated for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs.
What is the #1 vet recommended heartworm prevention? ›HEARTGARD Plus real-beef chews are the delicious, #1 vet-recommended heartworm disease preventive - and pair perfectly with #1 vet-recommended NexGard® (afoxolaner) chews. And the fact is, dogs love both chews. That's two tasty chews to double your dog's dosing delight each month.
What is the safest all wormer for dogs? ›Brands such as Cazitel and Ranvet's All Wormer Dog are safe and effective against all the major intestinal worms for puppies from 2 weeks old. They are the best dog wormer for all worms. Puppies should be dosed by weight and treated fortnightly between 2 and 12 weeks of age.
What happens if you give a dog dewormer and they don t have worms? ›No, Dewormers will not hurt dogs if they don't have worms. In fact, most Dewormers are safe for dogs of all ages, including puppies. However, it is always important to follow the instructions on the package and to talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication, just to be sure.
Can I treat my dog for worms without going to the vet? ›There are many tried and true home remedies for worms in dogs. While conventional deworming drugs can carry some nasty side effects, natural dewormers are a much safer choice. There are many foods and herbs like pumpkin seeds and black cumin seed that are both safe and effective natural dewormers for dogs.
What is the best time to deworm a dog? ›It always advised to give them deworming before they go to sleep in the night. Also, in case your dog or puppy has been worm infested heavily, the deworming process may cause intestinal blockage with dead worms.
How many times a year should you deworm your dog? ›They should be wormed every two weeks until twelve weeks of age, then monthly until six months of age. After six months all dogs need to be wormed every three months for effective protection. Learn more about worms and your dog.