Credelio for Dogs: Safety Concerns and Natural Alternatives

Fleas and ticks pose a persistent challenge for dogs and their owners, prompting a continuous search for effective prevention methods. Some dog owners are considering Credelio for dogs, but is it a safe solution? Discover the truth about Credelio and explore natural alternatives.
What Is Credelio Used For In Dogs?

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Credelio is an oral medication for dogs, prescribed to prevent and control fleas and ticks, administered monthly. Its active ingredient, lotilaner, belongs to the isoxazoline class of parasiticides.

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What Are Isoxazolines?

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Isoxazolines are chemical compounds used as parasiticides to manage fleas and ticks in pets. They disrupt the insects’ central nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. Examples include fluralaner, afoxolaner, and lotilaner. Credelio is similar to other products like Bravecto, Nexgard, Simparica, and Revolution Plus, which also contain isoxazolines and come in various forms such as chewable tablets, topical solutions, or spot-on treatments.

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Is Credelio Safe For Dogs?

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No, Credelio is not considered safe. As a neuroloxin, it can cause neurological adverse reactions in dogs. Manufacturer-sponsored studies claim safety, but they are often short-term, with the longest being only 8 months. Social media pages document dogs experiencing side effects, including seizures, after taking isoxazolines.

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Credelio For Dogs Side Effects

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According to an FDA fact sheet, isoxazoline products like Credelio have been associated with neurologic adverse reactions such as muscle tremors, ataxia, seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, elevated BUN, polyuria, elevated potassium, elevated creatinine, and weight loss. If your dog suffers any adverse reactions, report them to the FDA.

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Does Credelio Help with Skin Dermatitis?

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Credelio does not treat skin dermatitis. While it can be part of managing flea allergy dermatitis, it does not alleviate, treat, or stop the itch associated with skin dermatitis. It only paralyzes or kills existing fleas, which may indirectly prevent or relieve symptoms.

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Natural alternatives to Credelio for dogs are essential for maintaining your pet’s health without the use of risky pharmaceuticals. Here are some natural remedies to prevent fleas and ticks in dogs.

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Herbal Remedies

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There are many herbal remedies that can repel fleas and ticks. If you opt for a pre-made product, consider ingredients such as neem oil, lavender, sage, or lemon juice. For those who prefer to create their own remedies, you can find a recipe in this post.

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Essential Oils

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Certain essential oils, including peppermint, lavender, lemon, palmarosa, cedar, or eucalyptus oil, possess insect-repellent properties and can assist in controlling fleas and ticks. It is crucial to never use essential oils undiluted. They should be diluted in a carrier oil like almond oil at the ratio of 2-3 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.

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Diatomaceous Earth

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Diatomaceous earth is a natural product made from crushed fossils of marine life with razor-sharp shards that pierce the exoskeleton and larvae of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die. Apply it to your pet’s coat, rub it in, then brush the coat to remove the dried mixture.

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Apple Cider Vinegar

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Apple cider vinegar can help create a higher pH in your dog’s environment, discouraging parasites. Dilute it 1:1 with water and spray or rub it through your dog’s coat. Use a cotton ball to dab it behind your dog’s ears, armpits, and groin, but avoid using it on raw areas as it can cause irritation. Alternatively, you can add 1-2 tablespoons to a quart of water in your dog’s water bowl or stir some into your dog’s food. The amount used should be adjusted based on the size of the dog, with 1/4 teaspoon for small animals and up to a tablespoon for large dogs.

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Natural flea prevention creates an unattractive environment for parasites. These remedies should prevent fleas and ticks from attaching to your dog before they become a problem, thus helping you avoid the risks associated with pharmaceuticals like Credelio for dogs.

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