Frontline For Dogs

Flea & Tick Control For A Healthy Dog

Fleas and ticks are an annoyance to you and your dog; what's more, these irritating little pests can cause serious health problems, ranging from skin allergies to Lyme disease. Timely and regular application of a flea and tick control product can eliminate the irritation and hazards associated with these tiny critters. One of the most common flea/tick products on the market is Frontline for dogs.

Made by Merial, an international animal pharmaceutical company, Frontline offers three different products to help you and your dog achieve a flea and tick-free life. Following are some frequently asked questions about the product, designed to provide you with the tools you need to make an informed decision about managing pests through the use of Frontline.

1. What is Frontline for dogs?

Frontline for dogs is the number one veterinarian recommended flea and tick control product on the market. The active ingredient is fipronil, a broad spectrum insecticide that kills and repels fleas and ticks.

2. What products are in the Frontline for dogs range?

Frontline for dogs is available in three different products: Frontline Spray, Frontline Topspot and Frontline Plus. Frontline Spray is designed to eliminate current flea/tick infestations in your home and is often used by veterinarians for initial treatment in the clinic. Frontline Topspot is an easy topical liquid solution for fast-acting and long-lasting pest control. Frontline Plus goes one step further with an added ingredient ((S)-methoprene) to kill eggs and larvae as well as adult fleas, and all life-cycle stages of the four common ticks. Frontline Topspot and Frontline Plus are packaged in individual doses according to your dog's weight.

3. How does Frontline work?

A single application of Frontline between your dog's shoulder blades allows the fipronil to be stored in the oil glands under the skin, where it is dispersed through the hair follicles to the dog's skin and hair. Since it continuously transpires, the product is waterproof and remains effective for about 30 days.

4. Are there any side effects or hazards I should be aware of?

Most dogs do not experience symptoms with the use of Frontline. The most common side effect is skin irritation at the application site. This usually goes away within 48 hours. Some dogs are allergic to fipronil and can react violently. You should call your veterinarian immediately if your dog exhibits any adverse symptoms after applying any flea or tick product.

5. What are the alternatives to Frontline?

There are many chemical and natural flea and tick control solutions. Shampoos, sprays, spot-ons, dips and collars deal with pests in various life cycle stages; some prevent flea or tick attachment while others kill adult and/or larvae pests. Some of the most common brands are K9Advantix, Zodiac, Bio Spot, Sentry and Hartz. Natural remedies use peppermint oil, neem oil or garlic to prevent infestation.

6. Which product will work the best for my dog?

The level of flea or tick infestation, the age and health of your dog and your dog's lifestyle are some of the factors to consider when choosing a Frontline product for your dog. If your dog lives inside and is rarely exposed to ticks, the convenience and long-lasting effect of Frontline Topspot is hard to beat. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, especially in the woods, Frontline Plus can provide more complete protection.

If you missed the boat and the fleas got to your dog before you did, an initial application of Frontline Spray might be in order, followed by monthly dosages of Frontline Topspot or Frontline Plus. If your dog is pregnant or nursing, you may use Frontline Topspot or Frontline Plus, but not the Spray.

7. When and how should I use Frontline on my dog?

You should apply Frontline Topspot or Frontline Plus just prior to the onset of flea and tick season. Frontline packaging contains detailed instructions for use. Both products are easy to apply a single dose of product. Just break the end off the applicator, work it through the hair to the skin between your dog's shoulder blades and squeeze, emptying the applicator in one spot. Frontline Spray is for use when your dog is already heavily infested with fleas and has not been treated with another product. Ruffle your dog's fur and spray toward the roots, allowing the spray to kill fleas and ticks on the skin.

8. What pests will Frontline protect my dog against?

Frontline Spray and Frontline Topspot kill existing fleas and ticks and continue to kill pests for up to a month. Frontline Plus also kills lice as well as flea and tick larvae, and prevents all flea stages from developing.

9. How fast does Frontline work?

Most fleas die in less than 24 hours after contact with Frontline products. It can take up to 48 hours to eliminate ticks. Frontline Topspot and Frontline Plus usually kill fleas before they bite, preventing discomfort in dogs with flea allergies.

10. Is Frontline okay for all dogs?

Frontline is appropriate for most dogs. However, it should not be used on puppies less than eight weeks old, geriatric or feeble dogs. Frontline Topspot and Frontline Plus are okay for dogs who are pregnant or nursing, but Frontline Spray is not (always read the label before applying Frontline for dogs).

11. Does Frontline prevent fleas and ticks or does it kill existing ones?

Frontline Spray eliminates adult fleas and ticks that are already present. Frontline Topspot kills adult fleas and ticks and repels pests. Frontline Plus kills adult fleas and ticks as well as larvae of fleas and most ticks. It also acts as a repellent.

12. Can my dog participate in normal activities after a Frontline treatment?

You should wait until the application site is completely dry (at least 24 hours) before allowing your dog to get wet. All other activities are fine; once the product is no longer visible, your dog can swim or have a bath with no impact on the effectiveness of Frontline.

13. Where can I buy Frontline?

You can purchase Frontline from your veterinarian, or, with a vet's prescription, from a retail or online pet store. Online stores can be less expensive, but you might choose to support your local dog supply store.

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