What safe and effective tick prevention methods are available for dogs that do not cause adverse effects, such as seizures or other symptoms (side effects)?

From the Guidelines

For tick prevention in dogs, I recommend using veterinarian-approved ectoparasite control products, such as monthly topical acaricide products, acaricidal tick collars, oral acaricidal products, and acaricidal shampoos, as they are effective and safe when used as directed. These products can help prevent tickborne diseases and reduce the risk of tick bites. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 1, protecting pets from tick bites is crucial to prevent the transmission of tickborne diseases. Regular tick checks on dogs are also essential, and owners should examine their dogs' ears, between toes, under collar, and in skin folds after outdoor activities 1. Additionally, using tick repellents containing DEET, IR3535, or picaridin on dogs can help reduce the risk of tick bites, but it is essential to follow the package label instructions and consult with a veterinarian before using any repellent products 1.

Some key points to consider when choosing a tick prevention method for dogs include:

• The safety and efficacy of the product
• The dog's age, weight, and health status
• The potential for adverse effects, such as seizures or other symptoms
• The need for regular tick checks and removal of attached ticks
• The importance of consulting with a veterinarian before starting any tick prevention program

It is also important to note that while natural options, such as cedar oil sprays or diluted apple cider vinegar solutions, may be available, they are less reliable than prescription products and should be used with caution. Always consult with a veterinarian before starting any tick prevention program to determine the best option for your dog's specific needs.

From the FDA Drug Label

Indications: NexGard kills adult fleas and is indicated for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations (Ctenocephalides felis), and the treatment and control of Black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), American Dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum), and Brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) infestations in dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 4 pounds of body weight or greater, for one month. NexGard is indicated for the prevention of Borrelia burgdorferi infections as a direct result of killing lxodes scapularis vector ticks. The safe and effective tick prevention method available for dogs is afoxaner (PO), which is indicated for the treatment and control of various tick infestations, including:

• Black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis)
• American Dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis)
• Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum)
• Brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) This method is effective for dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 4 pounds of body weight or greater, for one month 2.

From the Research

Safe and Effective Tick Prevention Methods for Dogs

• The use of fipronil-(S)-methoprene and imidacloprid-permethrin combinations has been shown to be effective in preventing tick infestations in dogs 3.
• A study comparing the efficacy of these two combinations found that fipronil-(S)-methoprene remained at 100% efficacy at all assessment points through day 37, while imidacloprid-permethrin peaked at 86.46% on day 9 and decreased to 63.53% by the end of the study 3.
• Another study found that afoxolaner (NexGard®) and fipronil-permethrin (Frontline® Tri-Act) administered once to dogs experimentally infested with Hyalomma marginatum ticks had an efficacy of at least 97% after 48 hours and at least 99% after 72 hours 4.

Reducing the Risk of Tickborne Diseases

• Counseling patients on the use of protective clothing and tick repellents during outdoor activities can help minimize the risk of infection 5.
• Prophylactic treatment after tick exposure in patients without symptoms is generally not recommended, but may be considered within 72 hours of tick removal in specific patients at high risk of Lyme disease 5.
• Effective pharmacotherapy exists to treat tickborne diseases, including doxycycline, which is active against each of the causative organisms 6.

Control of Tick Populations

• The use of doxycycline-laden oral bait and topical fipronil delivered in a single bait box has been shown to be effective in controlling Ixodes scapularis populations and reducing Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in small mammal reservoirs and host-seeking ticks 7.
• This strategy has been found to reduce nymphal and larval tick burdens on small mammals by 76 and 77%, respectively, and nymphal tick abundance by 81% on treated properties 7.