Dogs can easily become infested with fleas and ticks, and pesticide dips are one option for combating these pests. While traditional dips have few side effects, some national organizations urge consumers to be cautious of these products and to seek out alternatives.
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Fleas and Ticks
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Fleas and ticks are common canine pests. Even healthy dogs can play host to them if the dog is exposed to another animal with fleas or travels through a tick-infested area.
Ticks are blood-sucking creatures that will latch onto your dog and remain there until they fill themselves so full with blood that they fall off. Removal of ticks should be done carefully so as to not leave any part of the tick in your dog's skin to spread disease-laden secretions. Some ticks can carry Lyme disease, a potentially fatal ailment for dogs and humans.
Usage
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Flea and tick dips are used to rid the dog of these pests and, in some cases, to prevent future infestations. There are three types of flea and tick dips: herbal dips, dips with the active ingredient pyrethrin, and homemade flea and tick dips.
According to the website Paw Rescue, geranium repels ticks, peppermint and citronella repel fleas, and lavender and lemongrass repel both. Rosemary can be used on a dog's collar to help repel fleas. A dip made of water and lemons may help rid dogs of these pests, according to the website. In addition, the website Passionate Homemaking suggests using coffee grounds to create a flea dip as you bathe your dog.
The dip is applied directly to the dog by either sponging it onto the coat or by partially submerging the dog, or dipping it, into the solution. The website Vet Info recommends using the dips a maximum of three times per year.
Considerations
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The American Veterinary Medical Association cautions consumers about using flea and tick products, but indicates that side effects of most treatments are generally mild and can include skin irritation and an upset stomach.
The Food and Drug Administration and/or the Environmental Protection Agency regulate pesticide products in the U.S. In 2009, the EPA issued an advisory on spot-on pesticides for flea and tick control (such as flea dips) in cats and dogs. The organization is continuing to evaluate products due to adverse reactions the FDA reports as "mild skin irritation to skin burns, seizures and, in some cases, death."
The EPA and FDA advise pet owners to consult their veterinarians before administering a pesticide to their pet.
Alternatives
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According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, safe alternatives to harsh flea and tick dips do exist. They include insect growth regulators, which stop the development of young fleas. Some name brands of mild pesticides and IGRs that the NRDC recommends includes Program, Frontline and Advantage.
Prevention
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Good grooming practices and house cleaning such as vacuuming can lessen the risk of a flea or tick infestation in your dog. As well, healthy dogs can ward off infection from an infestation better than malnourished ones, so it's important to feed your dog a proper diet.
Pet owners should also keep their dogs away from other animals known to be infested with fleas or ticks.
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