What should be given to dogs for tick protection? - briefly
Veterinary‑approved tick preventatives—oral isoxazoline tablets (e.g., afoxolaner, fluralaner) or topical spot‑on formulations containing permethrin, imidacloprid‑flumethrin—provide effective protection. A licensed tick collar with amitraz offers an additional long‑lasting option when applied according to label directions.
What should be given to dogs for tick protection? - in detail
Effective tick prophylaxis for canines requires a combination of pharmacological agents and environmental measures. Systemic oral products deliver active ingredients through the bloodstream, killing attached ticks before disease transmission. Common options include afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner and lotilaner, administered as chewable tablets or flavored pills every 30 days (afoxolaner, sarolaner) or every 12 weeks (fluralaner, lotilaner). Dosage is calculated on a per‑kilogram basis; precise weight measurement prevents under‑ or overdosing.
Topical spot‑on treatments spread across the skin surface, providing rapid repellent action and killing ticks that contact the coat. Products such as fipronil‑based formulations, imidacloprid + permethrin, and selamectin are applied once monthly. Application involves parting the hair at the base of the neck and dispensing the entire dose directly onto the skin. Water‑resistant formulations maintain efficacy after swimming or bathing.
Tick‑preventive collars release low‑dose acaricides over extended periods. Collars containing deltamethrin, imidacloprid or flumethrin protect dogs for up to eight months. Proper fit—tight enough to allow two fingers between collar and neck—ensures continuous release of the active compound.
Environmental control reduces the tick burden in the dog’s habitat. Regular mowing, removal of leaf litter, and application of acaricide sprays or granules to shaded areas limit tick development. Weekly inspection of the animal’s coat, especially after outdoor activity, allows early removal of unattached ticks.
Key considerations when selecting a preventive regimen include the dog’s age (some products are approved only for animals older than 8 weeks), weight, health status (liver or kidney disease may contraindicate certain agents), and concurrent medications (potential drug interactions). Veterinary assessment confirms suitability, adjusts dosing intervals, and monitors for adverse reactions. Combining systemic, topical and environmental strategies maximizes protection against tick‑borne pathogens.