[nagdu] Flea Preventitaves

[Deanna Lewis]

Hi Karen,
Thanks for all the tips. I really appreciate it.
I hadn't thought of Apple cider Vinegar. We used to use that when I was a
kid on our pet dogs. We actually would put a few teaspoons of it in our
dogs/cats water bowl. It helped with the fleas, but I don't think the cats
liked the taste /smiles/.
I have heard awful stories about the Hartz Ultra Guard, which they (Hartz)
says is comparible to Frontline. 
Thanks again.
Deanna and Pascal

-----Original Message-----
From: nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf
Of Karyn & Thane
Sent: Thursday, August 30, 2012 11:35 AM
To: nagdu at nfbnet.org
Subject: Re: [nagdu] Flea Preventitaves

I am sorry you are having flea problems. Over the last couple years at
least, its been known that there are some counterfeit products of Frontline
out there- some even unknowingly being purchased by vets. It could be
related to this but for whatever reason a change is needed for you.
Before making a change (especially with a guide dog you rely upon) I'd do
some research. Vets are not always privy to the info on Adverse Event
Reports. They just dont have the time to look everything up and take care of
all their clients unfortunately with the booming industry of Veterinary
care.
That puts some of the research (sometimes all) in our hands.
I'd do a search on Adverse Event Reports and the name of the product. That
should bring up the information as well as how to make a report so one you
have experienced is counted (since vets also dont geneerally report anything
that doesn't happen in front of them) I learned about all of this the hard
way when I nearly lost Met to Advantage.
I tend to try a more holistic approach as much as possible. Build the health
of the animal, use alternative methods for prevention of fleas, and as a
last resort I use old school capstar with Thane.
During a flea outbreak you need to clean up the environment like Debbie did.

There are lots of methods to do that- some are very harsh on you and the
environment (and especially a dog living on the floor) while others not so
bad- again do your research by looking up the MSDS on the product or to be
more thorough look it up on each of the products ingredients.
I live with profound multiple chemical sensitivities and work with Border
Collies (a more sensitive breed in general ) so I am more inclined to get
all the facts before trying things.
One of the things I prefer to use the most is diluted raw apple cider
vinegar. I wipe Thane down really well no more than once a day but usually
about every third day. For my needs I have to use a mask and gloves and do
it outside but most of you should be fine doing this without those
protections.
I use a 32 ounce bottle and use anywhere from 1-4 capfuls. The rest of the
32 ounces is water. Shale well before using. Some people use more but start
with the lowest amount  and work up (never use it full strength) Do not use
around the face- top of head, neck and body use only From what I understand
fleas don't like the smell.

If I had to choose a regular flea product to use in a dog without any of the
precautions in its history, I'd probably opt for Comfortis You can also make
your own flea traps or buy flea traps to use to help in keeping
environmental numbers to a minimum. Keep in mind though that these just are
an aid. Fleas tend to go to the warm animal bodies first. They can
definitely cut down the numbers.
There are also a number of herbal remedies/ sprays that can be used
(formulas you can make or buy) for those wanting to cut down on the
chemicals being used/ absorbed into their dogs bodies.

Karyn and Thane 


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