Every month, dog owners apply topical drops to their pooches' skin to kill biting fleas. Unfortunately, flea drops can also pose health risks to dogs, often without warning. Consequently, it is important for owners to be aware of the risks associated with using flea drops and to read the product label for proper application instructions. In addition, owners should watch their dog for any reactions after applying a topical flea treatment.
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Scientific Studies
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While there are many topical flea treatments for sale in grocery and pet stores, they can cause serious reactions in dogs. According to The Humane Society, in 2008 the Center for Public Integrity reported that there were 1,600 pet deaths in the preceding five years related to topical pesticide treatments containing pyrethroids.
Chemical Culprits
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In addition to pyrethroids, other chemicals found in flea products that can cause adverse side effects include organophosphate insecticides (OPs) and carbamates, according to The Humane Society. OPs include products containing chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, phosmet, naled, tetrachlorvinphos, diazinon or malathion. Carbamates include products containing carbaryl or propoxur.
Side Effects
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Topical flea treatments account for more than half of pesticide reactions that involved serious medical complications over the five years preceding 2008, such as brain damage, heart attacks and violent seizures, according to The Humane Society. Skin irritation is typically the most common side effect, however, which can be identified as redness and irritation of the skin from scratching or burning, sores on the skin and hair loss. Many of these are minor occurrences and last no more than a day. Other side effects include lethargy, salivating, dilated pupils, shaking, vomiting, seizures and loss of appetite.
Treatment
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Consult a veterinarian immediately if your dog experiences any side effects after you apply the topical flea treatment. In addition, bathe the dog with a mild dish detergent and rinse her continually with water, according to BioSpot Victims. Avoid flea shampoos because they typically contain additional pesticides.
Prevention
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Preventing adverse reactions to topical flea repellent can be as simple as reading the instructions on a product label. Never use these products on pregnant, elderly or debilitated dogs without contacting your veterinarian, according to Paw Rescue. Do not allow the dog to lick the area where you've applied the topical treatment, and do not let the flea drops get into your dog's eyes. Also, consult your veterinarian before you use flea drops on puppies, even if the product says it's safe for those over eight weeks of age, says Daily Puppy. A puppy's organs are still developing and are more susceptible to adverse reactions. Instead, consider a gentle flea shampoo that does not contain insecticides and rinse your dog's fur with apple cider vinegar, Paw Rescue says.
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