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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Ectoparasiticides for dogs: how well they kill ticks and fleas

By Pfister, Kurt & Armstrong, Rob·Published in Parasites & vectors·2016·Parasite Consulting GmbH·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Systemically and cutaneously distributed ectoparasiticides: a review of the efficacy against ticks and fleas on dogs.

Species:
dog
Skin & coatDogs

Plain-English summary

A review of treatments for fleas and ticks in dogs found that both topical and oral medications can be effective. Products containing permethrin and fluralaner showed good to excellent results in killing these parasites. However, the effectiveness can depend on how well pet owners follow the treatment guidelines, how quickly the medication works, and how consistently it protects the dog over time. Overall, oral treatments can be just as effective as topical ones in reducing the risk of diseases spread by fleas and ticks.

People also search for: best flea treatment for dogs · oral vs topical flea medication · how to prevent ticks on dogs

Abstract

Acaricidal (tick) and insecticidal (flea) efficacy of systemically and cutaneously distributed ectoparasiticide products for dogs are compared based on permethrin and fluralaner as representative molecules. Results of efficacy studies against fleas and ticks are reviewed that show generally good to excellent results. Both externally and systemically distributed treatments have benefits and weaknesses in potentially preventing pathogen transmission by these arthropod vectors.Four general properties are considered related to the goal of providing optimal reduction in the risk of vector-borne pathogen transmission. These are: 1. Owner adherence to the recommended treatment protocol; 2. Rapid onset of activity following administration; 3. Uniform efficacy over all areas of the treated dog at risk for parasite attachment; 4. Maintenance of high efficacy throughout the retreatment interval. In considering these four factors, a systemically distributed acaricide can offer an option that is at least as effective as a cutaneously administered acaricide with regard to the overall goal of reducing the risk of vector-borne pathogen transmission.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27502490/