How can a dog be treated for ticks and fleas using tablets? - briefly
Give the dog an oral ectoparasiticide—examples include afoxolaner, fluralaner, or sarolaner—at the dosage and interval recommended by a veterinarian to eliminate current ticks and fleas and prevent new infestations for weeks to months. Administer the tablet with food, observe the pet for adverse reactions, and contact the vet if any side effects occur.
How can a dog be treated for ticks and fleas using tablets? - in detail
Oral antiparasitic tablets provide systemic protection against both ticks and fleas. The active ingredients, typically a combination of an insect growth regulator and a neurotoxic agent, circulate in the bloodstream and are ingested by attached parasites, leading to rapid death.
Selection of product
- Choose a formulation approved by veterinary authorities for the specific size and weight of the dog.
- Verify that the tablet covers the target species (e.g., Rhipicephalus spp., Ixodes spp., Ctenocephalides spp.).
- Confirm the dosing interval (monthly, quarterly, or bi‑annual) indicated on the label.
Dosage calculation
- Weigh the dog accurately.
- Refer to the product’s dosage chart; most tablets are dosed per kilogram (e.g., 0.5 mg/kg of afoxolaner).
- Administer the exact amount; under‑dosing reduces efficacy, overdosing may cause toxicity.
Administration protocol
- Give the tablet with food or a small treat to ensure swallowing.
- Observe the dog for 15–30 minutes after ingestion to confirm the tablet has been consumed.
- Record the date and time of each dose to maintain the recommended schedule.
Efficacy timeline
- Flea larvae and eggs are killed within 24 hours of ingestion; adult fleas die within 12 hours.
- Ticks detach within 48 hours; some products prevent attachment altogether by killing larvae before they embed.
Safety considerations
- Conduct a pre‑treatment health check: assess liver and kidney function, especially in senior or breed‑specific vulnerable dogs.
- Avoid use in dogs with known hypersensitivity to the active compound.
- Keep the medication out of reach of children and other pets; accidental ingestion by cats can be fatal.
Monitoring and follow‑up
- Perform a visual inspection of the coat weekly for residual ticks or flea activity.
- Report any adverse reactions (vomiting, lethargy, skin irritation) to a veterinarian promptly.
- Adjust the treatment plan if resistance signs appear, such as persistent infestation despite correct dosing.
Integration with environmental control
- While tablets eliminate parasites on the host, complementary measures (regular washing of bedding, vacuuming, and treating the environment with approved sprays) enhance overall control and reduce re‑infestation risk.
By adhering to precise dosing, consistent administration, and routine health monitoring, oral tablets deliver reliable, long‑lasting protection against tick and flea infestations in dogs.