Flea Medications are KILLING Dogs, Cats, and Causing Serious Effects on People in the Household

Flea medications, while effective in controlling pests, pose significant dangers to dogs and other pets. Several reports and studies have highlighted the risks associated with these treatments, particularly those containing certain chemicals.

DANGERS OF FLEA MEDICATIONS:

CHEMICAL TOXICITY
Many flea and tick treatments contain chemicals that can be harmful to pets. For instance, permethrin, commonly found in over-the-counter dog treatments, is highly toxic to cats and can cause serious health issues if used incorrectly. Symptoms of toxicity can include uncontrollable shaking and neurological damage, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

NEUROLOGICAL SIDE EFFECTS
Oral flea and tick preventatives, especially those containing isoxazolines, have been linked to severe neurological side effects in dogs. These side effects include tremors, seizures, ataxia (lack of muscle coordination), vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. These symptoms indicate that dogs are being poisoned along with the pests the medication is intended to kill.

PESTICIDE EXPOSURE
Flea treatments often contain pesticides that can be harmful not only to pets but also to humans, particularly children. Pesticides like organophosphates and carbamates, found in some flea treatments, have been linked to learning disabilities in children and various health issues in pets, including skin irritation, neurological problems, and even organ failure.

INCIDENT REPORTS
Between 2009 and 2013, Health Canada received 4,726 incident reports related to topical flea treatments for cats and dogs, with a significant number of deaths reported. Most of these incidents involved over-the-counter treatments, with spot-on treatments being responsible for approximately 80% of the cases.

FLEA MEDICATIONS CAN AFFECT HUMANS IN THE HOUSEHOLD IN SEVERAL WAYS:

Pesticide exposure: Flea treatments often contain pesticides that can transfer from pets to humans, especially children. This exposure may occur through:

• Direct contact with treated pets
• Residues on bedding, furniture, or other surfaces.
• Hand-to-mouth transfer after touching treated pets or contaminated surfaces

Health risks: Exposure to pesticides in flea treatments has been associated with potential health concerns for humans, including:

• Behavioral problems
• Cognitive delays
• Issues with motor development
• Skin irritation or allergic reactions

Occupational hazards: Pet groomers and handlers who regularly use flea-control products are at higher risk of exposure and may experience:

• Systemic illnesses
• Localized symptoms like chemical conjunctivitis
• Skin flushing and irritation
• Respiratory issues
• Abdominal cramping and nausea

Accidental ingestion:

While rare, accidental ingestion of flea treatments can be harmful, especially for children. Different types of treatments pose varying levels of risk:

• Topical treatments and flea powders can be particularly dangerous if ingested
• Oral medications generally pose minimal risk but should still be kept out of reach
• Ingesting flea collar material is usually not harmful in small amounts

Let me share some safe and effective natural flea control methods for dogs:

Regular bathing and grooming:

• Use mild dog shampoo and warm water
• A dawn dish soap bath can safely kill fleas
• Brush with a flea comb to remove fleas and eggs
• Do this 1-2 times per week during flea season

• Vacuum carpets, furniture and crevices frequently
• Wash pet bedding in hot water weekly
• Keep grass short and yard maintained
• Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth on carpets/floors (avoid letting pets inhale it)

Natural repellents (test small area first for sensitivity):

• Apple cider vinegar spray (diluted 50/50 with water)
• Lemon spray (steep lemon peels in boiling water)
• Cedar oil spray
• Rosemary, lavender, or neem oil (HEAVILY diluted as most essential oils are very harmful to dogs)

Beneficial nematodes:

• Microscopic worms that eat flea larvae
• Can be applied to yard areas where pets frequent
• Safe for pets and humans

Prevention:

• Regular cleaning routine
• Check pets daily during flea season
• Keep indoor humidity low
• Treat all pets in household simultaneously

The most effective approach usually combines several of these methods. If the infestation is severe, consult your Holistic Vet for additional safe treatment options.