How Frontline Plus Works
One of the main problems with controlling dog fleas is keeping the parasite away. Frontline Plus contains two important ingredients, fipronil and methoprene. Fipronil is a flea adulticide which kills adult fleas in 18 to 48 hours while methoprene acts as an insect growth regulator (IGR) to kills flea eggs and larvae. Frontline Plus can be effective against fleas for up to three months though more serious cases may require monthly applications or a prescribed treatment from your veterinarian. The medication is effective against the dog tick, a carrier of Lyme disease and other illnesses, for a minimum of one month. Another advantage of this topical dog medication is that it continues to protect against fleas and ticks after swimming, bathing and exposure to sunlight.
To apply, open the Frontline Plus capsule and squeeze the medication on the dog's skin between his shoulder blades. Make sure not to apply the medication only on the hair. After application the ingredient fipronil attaches to hair follicles and body oils and is released over time, killing nearly 98 to 100% of adult ticks and fleas.
Possible Side Effects
Frontline Plus is considered a very safe dog parasite medication, but some animals are sensitive to the ingredients. Skin irritation may occur at the site of application. Allergic reactions are also possible in dogs so if you are concerned about potential allergic reactions consult with your veterinarian before applying Frontline Plus.
The medication can be applied to pregnant or lactating dogs and puppies 8 weeks or older.
Keeping Dog Fleas Away
Frontline Plus can be an effective and long-lasting dog medication for flea control but there are other steps that owners can take to stop fleas from coming back or affecting other pets in the home.
Cleaning: Wash your dog's bedding in hot water and dry the bedding to kill any eggs or larvae present. Vacuum or steam-clean your home and use borates on the carpets. Throw out any vacuum bags to get rid of fleas that may be inside. Unrefined diatomaceous earth is a safe product that can also be used to keep fleas away by sprinkling it under furniture and in hard to reach corners. Do not use the diatomaceous earth for swimming pools, it is very fine and can cause lung irritation.
Hygiene: Start a routine when your dog is still a puppy and check his skin and coat for parasites, larvae or eggs with a fine comb or flea comb. Flea shampoos and collars and oral medication can also be used in conjunction with a topical medication to prevent parasites and the illnesses they carry. Owners that live in high risk areas, like the Northeastern United States, should stay on top of flea and tick control before problem seasons like spring and summer. Talk to your veterinarian about the best flea control schedule for your dog.