Question:
Last summer, our 10-pound Pekingese suffered four seizures. We had him on Frontline. This winter, he was not on Frontline and had no seizures that we know of. We asked our vet, and he said Frontline does not cause seizures. We read in your column that we could substitute brewer's yeast, but I have no idea how much to give and whether we should give it in the form of powder or pill. Secondly, we live in a wooded area with lots of Lyme disease, and our vet gives our dogs a Lyme shot each year. Two weeks ago, the Pekingese had a shot and within one week she had a seizure. I'm wondering whether the shot could have caused the seizure or whether it was just coincidence.
S.C., Bloomington, MN Oct 11, 2010
Answer:
You should inform your veterinarian that I have received sufficient letters to confirm a definite connection between dogs having seizures and the use of Frontline flea repellent. Many dogs also experience adverse reactions to the Lyme disease vaccine that actually gives no guarantee of protection from the disease. There are many co-factors that can cause seizures in dogs or make dogs more susceptible, including hereditary predisposition and dietary ingredients such as wheat and cereal gluten. Check my website for flea-control measures, including brewer's yeast (1 teaspoon per 30 pounds of body weight daily mixed in with the dog's regular food, beginning with a pinch so the dog gets used to it), along with the same amount of flaxseed oil that will also help improve your dog's skin and coat.
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