Question:
What is your opinion about using flea and heartworm medicine on dogs? I have a 4-year-old Yorkie and have been using Revolution on her. I have mixed feelings regarding this medicine. My vet tells me it's safe, but I have heard of dogs getting kidney disease and dying at the young ages of 5 to 7 years old.My dog has skin issues. She breaks out with contact dermatitis, licks her paws a lot and gets rashes. I was wondering if the medicine contributes to this. Is there anything else that is safer?My dog is very picky about food, so I can't add things to it or in her water. She is only 4.5 pounds.
J.C., Fort Myers, FL Aug 13, 2006
Answer:
Your dog's skin disorder needs attention, and tests need to be done to find out why she develops dermatitis. Products like the one you are using can cause problems, and I have many letters from readers documenting the potentially harmful side effects of this type of broad-spectrum anti-parasite and anti-flea-and-tick product. I strongly advise against long-term use, especially when animals like yours already have a health problem.To repel insects, use a flea comb daily, and try safe alternatives like Avon's Skin So Soft or eucalyptus lemon oil rubbed lightly over your dog's fur every two to three days. One half teaspoon each of Brewer's yeast and flaxseed oil daily in her food may also help.Your dog may have a food allergy or be allergic to grass, pollen or other allergens in her environment. A holistic approach to boosting her immune system with various supplements is called for.CHICKEN-BONE CLARIFICATION: I do not advise giving cats and dogs any chicken or other bones to chew on to help keep their teeth clean because of the risk of splintering and internal injury, with two exceptions: Raw beef-marrow bones for dogs are relatively safe, and cats can be fed raw chicken-wing tips that have had the main bones removed, leaving mainly cartilage and tendons. Most cats will chew them slowly, but it's pointless giving them to dogs, as they will swallow them in one gulp.
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