Revolution for dogs is a prescription tick treatment with a number of benefits for dogs who live in heavily wooded areas, where ticks and fleas are in abundance.
Revolution Tick Treatment
Revolution is a topical medication applied once a month to the back of your dog's neck. It works by penetrating the skin and entering the bloodstream, and its main ingredients not only kill adult fleas, ticks and ear mites, but prevent heartworm disease as well. The fleas, ticks and other parasites die after biting your dog and being poisoned by their blood.
Side Effects of Revolution
Although side effects are not common, they can include:
- Digestive upsets
- Hair loss at the site of application
- Salivating
- Vomiting
- Muscle Tremors
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy and drowsiness
- Rapid breathing
- High heart rate
Studies show less than 1% of dogs suffer from side effects. Vets will recommend Revolution not be used in sick or underweight dogs, however.
Which Dogs Can Use Revolution
Revolution, like most flea and tick medications, should not be used on puppies under six to eight weeks of age. Revolution, however, unlike some other medications, has been deemed safe for use on pregnant or nursing dogs. Otherwise, any dog can use Revolution so long as your vet has given the okay. It will be prescribed according to your dog's weight, so never use another dog's Revolution prescription. If giving the treatment to both your dog and cat, do not use one Revolution intended for the other, as this could make them both sick or prove fatal.
Symptoms and Results of Overdose
Never double up on doses of Revolution even if you miss a dose, or if you think a double-dose will be doubly effective. Likewise, do not give a smaller breed Revolution that's designed for a larger breed. Revolution is weight-specific and just as using too little can be ineffective, using too much can prove fatal.
Overdose is possible and if you fear your dog has overdosed, seek veterinarian treatment immediately. Symptoms of overdose, in addition to aforementioned side effects, include excessive drooling and a sudden lack of coordination. If you notice any of the side effects or if your dog is having trouble coordinating his movements, you should seek vet care promptly.
What to Avoid
If your dog is on any other heartworm medications, you should not give him Revolution. Check with your vet if your dog is on any other medications at all, to ensure no adverse reactions can occur on either end.
Do not use Revolution on sick or underweight dogs. Always have your dog checked for heartworm prior to the first administering of Revolution. If you obtain Revolution because your dog has fleas or ticks, you need to clear up the infestation with a tick and flea bath prior to applying the Revolution. However, ensure your dog is thoroughly dry before application, otherwise it will not absorb properly into the skin.
Owners should wash their hands thoroughly after applying Revolution, as it can be irritating to human eyes and skin.