Question:
I was dismayed to read your encouragement of the use of the toxic flea-tick deterrents like Frontline and Program. We have totally eliminated fleas and ticks with fresh garlic and brewer's yeast on our golden retriever. When I see a tick in the house, it is on the floor, having dropped off the dog.
S.C., Bethesda, Md Feb 28, 2011
Answer:
I am even more dismayed by your interpretation of whatever I may have written on this topic. I consistently advise readers to take every measure of flea control to avoid the need to use potentially harmful anti-flea and tick drugs. These measures include giving brewer's yeast (also to cats) and fresh garlic to dogs in their food daily (not "on them," as your letter implies). Full details are posted at my website, TwoBitDog.com/DrFox, and in my book "Dog Body, Dog Mind
." When these measures fail, the products that you mention can be effective, but I would only advise as an emergency/last resort. I deplore their routine, preventive use as promoted by the drug manufacturers.