What to do when Frontline is not working

Frontline and Frontline Plus are among the most popular topical flea control products. Yet over and over again on discussion boards and in forums, you see comments from dog and cat owners claiming that Frontline isn’t working. Commercial topical products such as Frontline, Advantage, K9 Advantix, and Revolution are, of course, formulated to control fleas. Each of them contains different chemicals, many of which are hazardous. (See the post about dangerous chemicals.) Some of these chemicals may be more effective than others in flea control. A flea is a very resilient creature — difficult to control because it reproduces so rapidly, and difficult to kill because of its bodily structure. Can a flea build up a resistance to chemicals such as fipronil, a key ingredient in Frontline? Quite possibly. Evidence exists that insects can become immune to certain chemicals over time. If you are using a commercial topical product like Frontline, be sure you are following the manufacturer’s application instructions precisely. If you suspect it is not controlling your pet’s fleas, you may, in certain cases, be able to reapply it in as little as two weeks and try again. Speak to your veterinarian about this first. One alternative is to switch to another topical product. Another alternative is to supplement the topical product with another product that works internally, such as Capstar. Natural Flea Control Products We Recommend: Capstar for Dogs Over 25-lbs 6-count Capstar for Small Dogs and Cats 2-25-lbs 6-count Capstar for Small Dogs and Cats 2-25-lbs 60-count Based on the research conducted for our Flea Control book, however, we believe the best alternative is a natural one. We...

Common flea control products contain harmful chemicals

There are many commercial products available to prevent, control, and kill fleas, but the majority of these products contain unsafe, harmful ingredients. In fact, most commercially available pesticides contain toxic chemicals. Often these ingredients are toxic to the very animals they are supposed to protect – and can even do harm to you and...

Diatomaceous Earth: A miracle cure for flea control?

Diatomaceous earth, sometimes referred to as “DE,” is a natural substance that is actually created from the remains of diatoms, microscopic water plants that are like algae. It contains such minerals as silicon, calcium, sodium, and magnesium. It has a consistency similar to talcum powder and is available at most garden suppliers. This is a remarkable substance that is a desiccant – it actually dries out the waxy outer layer of fleas so they dehydrate and eventually die. As an added benefit, diatomaceous earth can eliminate other insects. So yes, in some respects, it is a miracle cure for fleas. It’s a product we’re pretty proud of, and consider to be worth the investment in the long term, in the same way you’d invest in insulation. Never having to worry about fleas working their way deep into your home is a comforting thought for those with pets who love the outdoors. But even though diatomaceous earth is a natural substance, its dust is dangerous to breathe for both humans and animals. Using it requires gloves and a dust mask. Be certain to read any cautions that come with the product and use it only as directed. Outside the home, spread it around the foundation and entry points. Inside the home, spread it around windows, doorways, and baseboards and rub it into the carpet. If you use this method, always use gloves, a dust mask, and goggles, and leave the house for several hours after use. It is not safe to inhale this substance when any particles are floating in the air. Fish, birds, and animals should not be left...

Interview with flea control expert and author Barry Silverstein

Watch an interview with accomplished author Barry Silverstein where he shares his motivations for writing the book, the risks with commercial products, and free tips and tricks you can use immediately . Video Timeline 0 – 1:00 Barry´s background/motivation for writing the book 1:00 – 1:55 What does “naturally” mean? 1:55 – 2:35 Why use a natural flea control approach? 2:35 – 3:55 Risks with common commercial flea control products 3:55 – 4:30 Where to apply natural flea control treatments 4:30 – 7:20 Barry shares specific natural flea control tips Natural Flea Control Products We Recommend: Natural Flea and Tick Spray for Cats Natural Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs Natural Defense Flea & Tick...