While flea medications may prevent dogs from enduring the agony of flea bites or flea allergy dermatitis, some canines react severely to the chemicals in the products. Common signs of flea medication toxicity include seizures, breathing difficulties, neurological problems, vomiting and diarrhea. These reactions are serious and potentially life-threatening. Take the dog to the veterinarian immediately if it displays any of these symptoms, and let the vet know what type of flea medication is involved.
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Bathing
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For mild reactions, such as excessive itching after exposure to flea medication, wash the dog using a canine shampoo. It may be necessary to lather and rinse repeatedly. Towel dry the dog thoroughly. If the itching does not stop after the dog has dried, or if more serious reactions occur, take the animal to the veterinarian for treatment. Even if the reaction is mild, a call to the veterinarian is always a good precaution.
Boost the Immune System
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Dogs that experience negative reactions to flea medications may benefit from boosts to the immune system to help get any residual poison out of their system. Feed a high-quality dog food. Herbs and nutraceutical supplements may help clear toxins from the liver. These supplements include echinacea, milk thistle, bovine colostrum and commercial preparations designed to boost the immune system. Check with your veterinarian before starting your dog on any of these supplements after a reaction to flea medication.
Activated Charcoal
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A veterinarian may administer activated charcoal in the case of serious adverse reactions to flea medications. The charcoal helps absorb toxins. Although activated charcoal is available over the counter, do not administer it to the dog without consulting your veterinarian. The amount of charcoal given to the dog will vary on the type of chemical causing the reaction. Activated charcoal is available as a powder, granules and liquid. Side effects include constipation and vomiting. Do not give the substance to dogs with breathing difficulties or loss of consciousness, as possibly fatal bronchitis may occur if aspirated.
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