Fleas and ticks are a constant challenge for dogs and their owners so there’s always a hunt for new ways to prevent them. Some dog owners are considering Credelio for dogs. But it’s not a safe solution … when natural methods can be just as effective.
Here’s what you need to know about Credelio for dogs …
What Is Credelio Used For In Dogs?
Credelio is an oral medication for dogs to prevent and control fleas and ticks, and is available by prescription only. It’s given as a monthly dose. Credelio’s active ingredient is lotilaner, which is a member of the isoxazoline class of parasiticides.
What Are Isoxazolines?
Isoxazolines are a class of chemical compounds used as parasiticides to control fleas and ticks in pets. They work by disrupting the normal functioning of the insects’ central nervous system, causing them to become paralyzed and die. Fluralaner, afoxolaner, and lotilaner are examples of isoxazoline parasiticides.
Credelio is similar to other flea and tick prevention products like Bravecto, Nexgard, Simparica and Revolution Plus, which are also isoxazolines. They come in different formulas, as chewable tablets, topical solutions, or spot-on treatments.
Is Credelio Safe For Dogs?
No, it isn’t. Like all isoxazolines, Credelio is a neuroloxin that kills fleas and ticks by paralyzing them. This means it can also cause neurological adverse reactions in dogs. In spite of that, manufacturers report that isoxazolines don’t have the same effect on dogs and cats as on insects.
Studies have been performed (sponsored by the manufacturer) attesting to the safety of Credelio in dogs with reports of no ill effects … but most of the studies were only 90 days and even one “long-term” study was only 8 months.
But in fact, there are social media pages devoted to telling the stories of dogs who have had minor and major side effects, including seizures, after taking isoxazolines.
Credelio For Dogs Side Effects
According to an FDA fact sheet, isoxazoline products have been associated with neurologic adverse reactions, including…
- Muscle tremors
- Ataxia (loss of coordination)
- Seizures
Other side effects experienced during the manufacturer’s field studies included diarrhea, vomiting, elevated BUN (blood urea nitrogen), polyuria (excessive urination) and elevated potassium. Another dog had elevated creatinine and weight loss. One dog who was vaccinated and had his ears cleaned at the same time as the Credelio dose experienced head tremors.
If your dog suffers any adverse reactions to these drugs, they should be reported to the FDA, who approved their use.
RELATED: The safest flea and tick prevention for dogs – and the riskiest …
Does Credelio Help with Skin Dermatitis?
No, it doesn’t treat skin dermatitis. The manufacturers of Credelio say it can be used as part of the management of flea allergy dermatitis. In fact, it doesn’t do anything to alleviate, treat, or stop the itch of skin dermatitis. It paralyzes or kills fleas that are already present … which may indirectly prevent or relieve flea allergy dermatitis.
Natural Alternatives To Credelio For Dogs
Here are some natural remedies to prevent fleas and ticks in dogs.
Herbal Remedies
There are many herbal remedies that can repel fleas and ticks. If you buy a pre-made product, look for ingredients like neem oil, lavender, sage or lemon juice. If you’d like to make your own, you’ll find a recipe in this post.
Essential Oils
Some essential oils, such as peppermint, lavender, lemon, palmarosa, cedar or eucalyptus oil, have insect-repellent properties and can be used to help control fleas and ticks. Essential oils should never be used undiluted. Always dilute them in a carrier oil like almond oil at the ratio of 2-3 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is made from crushed fossils of marine life with razor-sharp shards that pierce the shell and larvae … so the insect dehydrates and dies. Sprinkle onto your pet’s coat and rub it in, then brush the coat to remove the dried mixture.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Use apple cider vinegar to create a higher pH in your dog to discourage parasites. You can dilute it 1:1 with water and spray or rub it through your dog’s coat. Use a cotton ball to dab it behind your dog’s ears, armpits and groin … but don’t use it on raw areas, as it will sting.
Or feed it to your dog by adding 1 – 2 Tbs to a quart of water in his water bowl. If he doesn’t like the taste, use less. You can also stir some into your dog’s food. Use ¼ teaspoon for small animals and up to a tablespoon for large dogs.
RELATED: Read more about natural flea treatments for dogs …
Natural flea prevention creates an unattractive environment for parasites. They should prevent fleas and ticks from attaching to your dog before they become a problem … and help you avoid risky pharmaceuticals like Credelio for dogs.
