Blood Suckers

It’s flea and tick season, again. What are you using to combat the bugs?

When Chai was a puppy, I used Frontline based on my veterinarian’s recommendation. I thought it was entirely topical—creating a barrier on the skin that repels fleas and tics. Since then, I have come across numerous people who warn against using chemicals for flea prevention. I was told that the chemical absorbs into the bloodstream and is very hard on the liver. I have talked with one woman who swears it killed her pet.

I didn’t want to chance it so I went natur-al. I use garlic daily and once a month I give her an organic neem dip during the flea season. Last year: no fleas, no chemicals. As far as ticks are concerned, she had a few on her coat last year after some walks in the woods but, since she is white, I saw them immediately and picked them off.

No one can tolerate fleas and ticks. If Chai ever got either, I would reconsider my decision. But for now, natural prevention it is.

Stay away bugs!

What have your experiences been with the prescription veterinary flea medications? Have you had any success with natural methods? What are you doing for your cats? Our readers would like to know.

Tom Berger
Owner
Pretentious Pooch
Pet Boutique
1017 Cathedral Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
www.pretentiouspooch.com