Flea and tick prevention is an essential part of keeping your beloved pet healthy and happy in the long run. But the question that arises in every pet parent’s mind is, how to choose the most appropriate product from the plethora of options available in the market? Having to pick out the best and most effective flea and tick prevention for dogs can be an exhausting and arduous task. Moreover, there are many factors involved when comparing flea and tick treatments to ensure efficacy and safety. Fret not! We have got you covered.
In this blog post, we will understand the key factors involved in flea and tick treatment comparison and their benefits that can help you pick the best product for your four-legged companion.
Let’s get started!
Why flea & tick treatment is necessary for dogs?
Fleas and ticks are more than just an irritation; they spread harmful diseases to dogs, such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, etc. These blood-suckers can attack your dog both indoors and outdoors. Therefore, using an appropriate flea and tick treatment is crucial to ensure the health and overall well-being of your furry friend.
Factors to consider while comparing a flea and tick treatment
Mentioned below are some important factors that you must consider before choosing any flea and tick treatment for your canine:
Mode of administration: Flea and tick treatments are available in various forms such as topical, oral, chewable, collar, spray, etc. You can choose any form of treatment depending on your dog’s preferences and lifestyle.
Flea coverage: Does the treatment kill adult fleas, flea eggs and flea larvae or prevent future infestations? Keep all these factors in mind before choosing any treatment for your furry friend to ensure complete protection.
Tick coverage: It is essential to be aware of the tick species active in your location. Choose the treatment that provides the relevant tick coverage.
Frequency of treatment: Is the treatment to be used daily, monthly or quarterly?Prefer choosing the one that best suits your preferences and your pet’s protection requirements.
Active ingredients: Some flea and tick treatments contain ingredients that your dog may be sensitive to. Therefore, it is necessary to check with the vet before choosing any treatment to ensure the safety of your dog.
Age & weight: Each flea and tick treatment comes with a minimum age and weight criterion. Ensure you check the age and weight suitability of the treatment and buy the treatment that suits your canine for assured efficacy and coverage.
Most popular and vet-recommended dog flea & tick treatments
Before selecting a suitable treatment for your furry companion, it is important to understand their benefits and usage. Let’s have a quick rundown on some of the effective and vet-recommended flea and tick treatments for your little one:
Nexgard Spectra: Easy-to-administer tasty treatment available in a chewable form, Nexgard Spectra is effective against fleas, ticks, heartworms, mange, mites, biting lice, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and flea tapeworm infestations in dogs and puppies from 8 weeks of age, weighing 1.35 kg or greater. This monthly treatment also eliminates fleas that may cause flea allergy dermatitis (FAD).
Frontline Plus: Monthly spot-on application with hassle-free usage, Frontline Plus offers complete protection against fleas, ticks (paralysis ticks – two weeks and Brown dog ticks – monthly), sarcoptic mange, biting lice and fleas causing flea allergy dermatitis in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older. It can also be safely used in breeding, pregnant and lactating dogs.
Simparica Trio: Available in a highly palatable liver-flavored chew, Simparica Trio is a monthly oral treatment that provides protection from fleas, ticks, heartworms and other intestinal worms, including hookworms and roundworms in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 1.25 kg or greater.
Seresto Flea & Tick Collar: Long-lasting, odourless and water-resistant Seresto flea and tick collar is an easy-to-use formula that offers 8-month protection from fleas and ticks. It also reduces the risk of tick-borne diseases, including ehrlichiosis by controlling Brown dog ticks.
Aristopet Flea & Tick spray: Highly effective and simple to use, Aristopet flea & tick spray helps in controlling fleas and adult Brown dog ticks. This gentle and quick-drying formula is packed with a pleasant tea tree oil fragrance that leaves your pet’s coat healthy and refreshed.
Final Words
Based on the factors discussed in this blog, you can opt for the suitable flea and tick treatment for your four-legged companion. Apart from that, also consider the age, breed, size, and health of your dog when choosing an appropriate flea and tick treatment. And if you are still in doubt about which treatment to opt for, please consult the vet for tailored recommendations.
