frontline vs. cheaper brands

[teresa zaza]

I wonder about the differences between frontline and the cheaper brands of flea and tick products. Costco sells their brand but the main ingredient is 22% stronger. I have a seven lb. yorkie, I think that is too strong.
Would appreciate feedback on how well they work, and safety.. Thanks

[_Lisa_]

I wouldn't buy a flea/tick product from anyone but my vet. Products sold by retail stores are not regulated and could range from less effective to dangerous for our beloved pets.

[Newlfoo]

Actually, Frontline is considered "over the counter," meaning that it it can be sold in retail stores. It would be like saying I shouldn't get ibuprofen from a local retail shop if we can't get Frontline outside of the vet's office. I really wouldn't worry about buying Frontline Plus and others like it from a retail location, it's prescription medications that you have to be careful about (and when we purchase online and at other places for those, we check to see if they carry a valid state pharmacy license).

I'd say stronger may not always be better. It depends on how well Frontline Plus is currently working for you; if you don't think it's strong enough, you can certainly give it a go.

[Grayce]

Just a suggestion, but I quit using any chemical flea and tick several years ago. I put a little red wine vinegar in their water and use a product called "Natural Defense". I read some of the warning labels on the chemical stuff and it didn't seem to make sense to use something on an indoor pet that was so dangerous to the pet and to their humans.
We had a serious tick issue on a few acreas of our land that is wooded. The boys came home constantly with ticks on them...I haven't seen one on the dogs yet, and they're in the woods all the time.
I've been told that vinegar in water will also work for humans and in keeping away mosquitos as well as ticks and fleas.

"Natural Flea & Tick Spray for Dogs & Puppies, 8 fl oz
SENTRY Natural Defense® Natural Flea & Tick Spray for Dogs & Puppies kills and repels fleas and ticks, yet it’s safe for use around children and pets when used as directed – even in multiple-pet households.

Each easy-to-use pump spray features natural active ingredients such as peppermint oil, cinnamon oil, lemon grass oil, thyme oil and eugenol Defense"
The smell is a little overpowering but it makes me feel better to know that the kids can pet them after treatment without rushing to wash their hands and I may be trying the vinegar myself this summer for mosquitos...

[ilovepets10]

I'm not sure about how the size of the dog affects the effectiveness of the flea and tick prevention, but that sounds like something you either have looked into. If you're uncertain, I would go with the more protection, even if it costs more. In the long run, it will save you money from expensive vet bills. Hope everything is well!

[xpalaboyx]

Yes, definitely safe to be sure from vets prescription than just trying out products ourselves. Sometimes, cheaper products could lead to something more expensive.