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July 2008
I was just looking through the website concerning illness after using flea and tick control. We are having major issues with our 3 year old cocker spaniel after using Frontline purchased at our veterinarians office. I rarely use it because she always got diarrhea after she had it applied. But about 2 weeks ago we kept finding ticks on her so we decided to just apply a half dose to her and she became ill. Only this time it got progressively worse to the point that they are now saying she has liver disease. We have over $1100.00 in vet bills in just 1 week from ultrasound and specialists and blood tests. The ultra sound showed normal organs and tissue. Her white blood cell count became elevated. Her bilirubin is off the charts as well as her bile acids tests but her liver enzymes are showing normal. Everyone says oh its just a coincidence that you used Frontline and then she got ill but I do not think so. We are now facing a decision to do a liver biopsy and are not sure what to do. She has symptoms of lethargy which has been relieved a little in the past few days, refuses to eat and has to be force fed, she had severe yellow diarrhea. Its absolutely heart breaking. She is on antibiotics and metrazolamide and they had her on lactulose for a few days but she really got diarrhea from that. Any thoughts?
Mona 7/1/08
We have given Lacey a couple baths since the illness bc I read about the length of time Frontline remains on the skin. Frontline has been contacted by my vet and there is a case number and yes we were given the old song and dance that "Frontline is not a systemic drug" I have every intention of writing them when things settle a little more with Lacey's health.
We have some encouraging news about her. I had an animal acupuncturist/chinese medicine specialist in to see her and treat her and she has been making steps towards recovery. Her opinion was that this is not a liver issue but rather a gallbladder blockage or pancreas issue and she is very concerned that the frontline was a player in the problem. We have been feeding Lacey a special home made low protein/ high carb diet and giving her herbal supplements and pro biotic enzymes as well as the vet prescribed meds of amoxitabs, metronidazole and zentonil, but I discontinued the lactulose bc she took backward steps with every dose and she has never exhibited signs of hepatic encephalopathy. Her urine samples, to the eye, have cleared, they are no longer a dark amber color, but we have not had a re test done yet. I am taking her to another vet for an exam on Wednesday and have her blood CBC done for a fourth time. I am very hopeful it will show improvement. I have AIHA on my radar screen too bc the acupuncturist said that she is showing signs of anemia...very pale tongue and gums. For now the anorexia is subsiding...she eats about 1/3 to 1/2 a meal on her own. She is gaining energy each day and her eyes are brighter.
Thank you so much for your help.
Mona 7/7/08
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I used Bio spot for Cats on my cat yesterday and had to rush her to the vet today. The only warning I found on the label was "if sensitivity occurs contact your vet immediately." It didn't list any symptoms or other information. Fortunately, my cat is expected to make a full recovery (after a costly vet visit). How are they getting away with poisoning our pets without giving us any warning? I have VERY close family memebers who work for Farnam, so it's hard for me to know what to do other than thank God that my kitty is going to be ok......."She's gonna dream up the world she wants to live in. She's gonna dream out loud!" - Bono
Heather 7/2/08
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I have a one (1) year old dog who had adverse reactions to Sargeants Gold two nights ago. She began panting, and wandering around my apartment, at times falling over as if she were dizzy. This suddenly escalated into her drooling more than I have ever seen before. All of this occurred within 2 hours of my using the product on her. I have never been so fearful for my animals life. I then called the number for Sargeants on the back of its product to hear that my dog is probably overdosed, and could potentially die if I didn't rush her to the hospital! I could not believe how the representative spoke, calmly, as if this was something they were used to hearing. Please advise me on who to directly contact for reimbursement so that I am not given the run around. I also would like to assist further in banning the use of this product, and will write to every local and federal agency necessary to prevent this from happening to other animals.
Rooshi 7/3/08
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I received a Biospot sample in the mail and tried it on my both my cats this past Wednesday. The sample was sitting on my front porch when I got home from work Wednesday evening and I immediately put it on both my cats (I live out in the country and they have fleas and ticks). I went to bed that night and my one cat, Mikey, jumped on the bed in the middle of the night. I pet him for moment and noticed he was a little shakey etc. but I was half asleep and went righe back to bed. I got up for work Thursday morning and did not see him/notice him until I got home from work Thursday and opened the front door and my cat Mikey came running outside. He was shaking violently and was soaking wet (I still don't know how he got so wet). It was like he had Parkinsons Disease and was shaking uncontrollably. I called and talked to a vet and explained to them about the Biospot etc. and she told me that I had to give both cats a bath with liquid dish soap immediately and if the shaking did not go away in a few hours to take him to the vet. I gave both of them a bath and waited hysterical. My one cat, Patches did not show any symptoms (so I thought) but Mikey started shaking worse-much worse. By this time it was 8 pm and the only vets available was the emergency ones. I did not have money to pay and called a few and nobody would let me bring Mikey in without money in hand. I had no other option but to wait, make Mikey as comfortable as possible and pray. His shaking got so bad he had a hard time walking etc., so I laid him on the bed with the covers over him and laid down next to him. To my horror he started having seizures and continued having mild and then long horrifying violent seizures all night long. I laid with him all night whispering in his ear that he would be all right and he just kept looking at me in between seizures with the most scared, frightened eyes, not knowing what was happening to him. We stayed up all night and finally the seizures stopped. The following day he was extremely hyper and could not sit still, hyperventilating. I followed him around all day, pouring tiny capfuls of water down is throat to prevent dehydration. Well, today is Sunday and he is just now getting back to normal.
I was relieved my other cat did not have the same effects until this morning, I'm petting him and I notice the spot where I put his Biospot (between his shoulder blades) was a giant open sore (about the size of a fist). It is oozing liquid and his hair is no longer there. I had been concentrating so much on Mikey and his seizures that I would just glance at Patches thankful that he was not shaking or having seizures. Patches has been going through his own horrible nightmare with a open, oozing sore on his back.
I just cannot believe that something so horrible is on the market for us to give to our animals, our family members. I am so relieved both my cats are alive but still so angry that not only something like this is on the market but that I would put these type of chemicals intentionally on my cats. I will never put anything on them harsher than possibly a flea collar on them again. Who knows the possible long term health effects I might have exposed them to! PLEASE PLEASE if anybody else reads this, PLEASE be smarter than I was and DO NOT USE CHEMICALS ON YOUR PETS!!! I cannot believe I almost killed my cats.
Jenn 7/6/08
Fredericksburg, VA
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On July 5th I applied bio spot to my four pets, a dog and three cats, one of the cats began seizing and many other horrible symptoms, it began almost immediately after application. It is now two days later and i have a glimmer of hope that alex will recover. what percentage of cats have a serious reaction like this? I have used it for years with no problem but the sick cat had never had it before. Is it safe to continue using it on the other cats and the dog? A response from you would be greatly appreciated.
Elaine 7/7/08
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My dog Coco got real sick on Sergeants [Gold Squeeze-On] flea and tick drops also. I am posting it on My Space and everywhere I can, NOT TO USE THESE PRODUCTS! My Baby is still not right. I plan to look into suing the company, I am getting all kinds of info I can.
Something has to be done. I am taking my baby Coco back to vet today. I don't have the money, but I can't let him die. I think the next stop will be PETA.
Cindy 7/7/08
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Re: Sergeants Gold flea and tick
I put this stuff on my 3 dogs (chihuahua, pekingese and maltese) on july 4 at noon time by about 10 pm that night i had to rush my dogs to the Emergency Animal hospital! They were poisoned by this stuff. My poor lil babies couldnt sit still and were drooling and twitching all over the place and couldn't breath right, it was like they were on speed! Their skin was burned and their eyes and ears were extremely red. They were exhausted because they couldn't sit still. The vet said it attacks their central nervous system. I bathed them several times with dish washing soap and the vet gave them a shot of muscle relaxer and sent them home with meds. Also I had to give them alot of water to drink to try and flush the toxins out of their bodies. If anybody reading this knows of any class action suit .....please let me know.......... this stuff needs to be taken off the market.
Janice 7/10/08
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I'm trying to find information about GI problems after Frontline application. I don't see any posts on your site that report this reaction. My 3-year old mini poodle started vomiting a day after his usual Frontline application. He has a sensitive stomach anyway and is on low-residue diet. His vet asked me if the vomiting coincided with his Frontline. But most of what I'm reading in terms of adverse reaction are neurological and skin-related. I'd appreciate any information you have or can refer me to.
Toby 7/11/08
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Fellow pet owners & lovers...
On July 11th, 2008, I purchased Sergeants™ Gold Flea & Tick treatment from Wal-Mart to treat a beginning flea issue with my 13 month old Chihuahua Weezy. Weezy is the sweetest, most submissive dog ever. Within an hour and a half of applying the solution per the manufacturer directions, Weezy became extremely distressed. He began to run around maniacal, whimpering and yelping. He would drop at my feet rolling in the carpets, rubbing against anything he could drop his backside against. I immediately called the 800# on the back of the box to report and seek aid. The operator suggested he "may" be suffering a reaction to the treatment and advised to give him a bath with Dawn, Joy or Palmolive dish detergent. Weezy's right ear and eye were extremely swollen, red and feverish. The Sergeants™ agent said ''usually'' removal of the product with the dish detergent would relieve symptoms and proceeded to give me a claim number regarding the complaint/call. The CSR (Customer Service Rep) also suggested that if symptoms persisted to have my pet see his vet immediately.
My daughter and I washed Weezy 3 times in a head to toe bath of Palmolive, in which during that time he stood unusually tolerant in the sink as if to say "Thank You" while his glazed over, sad eyes looked into mine.
My heart beat in sheer panic and heavily affected in his distress. After bathing, drying and attempting to comfort Weezy, I applied a drop of milk into his eye in hopes of neutralizing the irritation. I suppose that in addition to the excessive bathing and rinsing helped and the ear and eye irritation went down a little. By this time it was 11pm, approximately 4 hours since the initial application and Weezy was still extremely agitated and anxious due to constant twitching, trembling, scratching, and crying. All through the night, he tossed and turned never able to rest for more than 5 minute increments. I did not sleep at all that night. After hours of both of us tossing and turning, him trying to find comfort, and me in duress of trying to comfort him, Weezy finally jumped off the bed and went into the bathroom to sleep which was totally out of his nature. He stayed there for over 2 hours. My heart just ached for him.
At 6:30 am the next morning, I continued to call for him and he just looked at me with his still glazed over eyes. He would not come. When I left from the same room he came and sat between my feet, still twitching in agonizing distress. At this point I called Sargeants™ Customer Service back to rage further complaint. I was in tears. They again told me that his reaction was unusual and should be seen by a Vet.
I wish I had read these posts before trying to save a penny. Though my dog is priceless in value to me, I was simply trying to save a few dollars from the high cost of Frontline, Advantage, etc. I cannot express the immense guilt I felt that in trying to save money, I expended this ridiculous pain and suffering onto my sweet baby. He had done nothing but love me unconditionally and without any reservation, and here I was being cheap!
Without further hesitation I took Weezy to his Vet. Upon examination, she assured me I had done the right thing (as I couldn't help but feel I basically applied a poison to kill fleas and damn near killed my own lovable dog). She explained these OTC Flea Treatments are nothing but "chemicals" and are designed to seize the central nervous system of the flea killing it on contact, but at the same time can cause severe reaction and complications in the animal. Weezy was suffering from chemical toxicity due to the single application of Sergeants™ Gold Flea & Tick Treatment. Weezy had a temperature of over 103 degrees, he was dehydrated, and in distress. The good news: his heart rate was slow/normal and his gums were still pink, which according to the Vet were good signs. Weezy was given a shot of corticosteroids and subcutaneous fluids to help re-hydrate and bring the fever down. About 3 hours after treatment we finally got a peepee and bowel movement from him after almost 12 hours of nothing. He also ate and took some water as the Vet said the steroids would cause him to be hungry and thirsty.
It is now almost 48 hours since the initial application of this blasphemous poison, and Weezy is for the most part back to his active normal, loving self. He is still suffering from twitching and is still scratching ridiculously. I am also observing him to be chewing and biting at his paws incessantly and am now concerned this may cause Hot Spots. I will be following up with the Vet tomorrow regarding these lingering issues. My only hope is Weezy will not suffer permanent issues from this poisonous crap, as I will be devastated.
After taking Weezy to the Vet, I did follow up with Sergeants™ Customer Service. I submitted a claim that I wanted to be reimbursed for Vet costs. The CSR asked me a series of questions and told me a list of things I would have to submit by mail to the company for a claim to be considered for reimbursement. I will follow up actively, without hesitation, and will not cease to spread the word on the effects of this product. I am without words in how I feel violated as a consumer, as well as the risk I subjected my beloved dog too, The ability of Companies to manufacture such products that have factual and detrimental health risks to animals. This is without a doubt, considered to be, by me; inhuman and unlawful!
Should Sergeants™ decide not to compensate reimbursement for my Vet's bill, as there is no price on my dog's suffering, I will seek further action. I would love to see a Class Action Lawsuit brought upon this company; with the least action being removal of these harmful products from the shelves.
I cannot even began to express how utterly shocked I was to Google this product's adverse reactions and witness how many stories read just like Weezy's. My Sweet dog has no voice but through me, and I shall not rest without speaking mine for him.
Sent with compassion,
A caring dog mom 7/13/08
I forwarded your message to the U.S. EPA. Please contact Wal-Mart's Corporate Headquarters and ask them why are they selling the most toxic flea control product in America.
James TerBush
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(Below is email that Nancy sent to the manufacturer of Bio Spot)
On June 19, 2008, I administered one application of Bio Spot on my dog Zephyr who is a 2 1/2 year old male Australian Shepherd. At 1:00 a.m. on June 20, 2008, he had a seizure identical to the one described on the Web site that I have listed below. This seizure was followed by six additional seizures over a 36 hour period. I took him to my vet who performed blood test to determine liver functions and found him to be fine in that area.
I am convinced that the Bio Spot application caused these seizures and will not use or recommend your product to anyone. I implore you to take this off the market and perform more testing before any other pets have to go through this experience. It is horrifying to see your pet go through the seizures. I am going to report this incident to the US EPA and hope that they will look into this matter.
I would appreciate any comments that you might have on this matter.
Nancy 7/13/08
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I just stumbled upon your website while looking for answers this morning. Five years ago I applied bio spot to my Yorkshire terrior within minutes she started thrashing on the floor and then began shaking uncontrollably running a high fever and ended up at the vet. Since then I have been terrified to use anything on her. The company refused to even acknowledge that it could have in any way been their product that caused these complications. We live in Michigan and really don't have a flea or tick problem but we were suppose to be leaving tomorrow for Tennessee where we were going to buy a house and move. Since the fleas and ticks are unavoidable there we took Abbey to the vet yesterday and had them apply Frontline Plus which they assured us would be perfectly safe. Well after I got her home five hours later she became lethargic and slept. I contributed it to the fact that she was just worn out from being at the vet all day. By this morning she was running a high fever, couldn't walk and wouldn't go outside or go potty at all after twelve hours of being asleep. By the time I threw on clothes and got her to the vet, she couldn't stand up and my usually aggressive dog (to other big dogs) layed on the floor of the vet office while two big dogs sniffed her and she just rolled her eyes and started convulsing. She is currently at the vet hospital on IV fluids and after two baths is starting to come around my other dog is now starting to act the same way. I called the EPA and filed a complaint and called Frontline whose obnoxious vet tech told me that there was no possible way she could be having a reaction from their product. Funny my vet knew immediately that it was the flea product she also told me that she would never recommend using bio spot because so many animals die from it. I pray my precious little boy and girl will recover and not have any serious after affects. So now we seem to be stuck in Michigan where my husband and I both quit our jobs because we were moving so now no income and two very sick dogs. Why are these companies allowed to sell products that can potentiality kill our beloved pets. I informed the makers of frontline that I fully expect not only a refund but they WILL be paying my vet bills or they will have one angry pet owner filing a law suit. I only wish I had come across your site sooner. If anybody knows of a natural way to keep the fleas and ticks off my dogs so we can safely move please let me know.
Has anybody forwarded all of these occurrences to these companies? This is a total outrage. I am getting ready to take dog number two to the vet now exactly four hours after I took the first one who is still there. My husband is bathing him right now for the second time before we go. Abbey and Riley are my precious babies and if I lose them I will go after these companies hopefully with all of your help.
Debbie 7/15/08
My vet confirmed it was the Frontline Plus. Both dogs are currently home now but still not totally themselves. She said it will probably take a few days and to never use any topical treatment again as she has had several patients with extreme reactions to Frontline and Advantix the only pets she has had died in her care had used Bio Spot. Obviously My vets have dealt with several cases of this in fact she didn't even charge for any of the emergency care which makes me believe this happens way to often. In the meantime Merial representatives are still blowing me off. Thanks for replying.
Debbie 7/15/08
You are very fortunate to have a vet who acknowledges that vet-prescribed flea control products (including Frontline and K9 Advantix) have the potential to cause severe adverse reactions in pets. It was very good of your vet to not charge for the emergency care, too. She should submit the bill to Merial for reimbursement.
Most vets are quick to deny that the flea control products they sell can have severe side effects. They bill their clients hundreds or thousands of dollars to treat those side effects, and then leave it up to the client to try to seek reimbursement from the product manufacturer for the emergency vet expenses.
James TerBush
Update:
Abbey and Riley are doing fine, Abbey stopped losing her fur after about two weeks but it has grown back nicely. They are both now on all natural "Flea Free" which can be purchased at Judyshealthcafe.com. When you open the bottle the smell of garlic will knock you over but the dogs love it, no bad breath or gas or smelly stools. It works great no side effects as it is totally natural and I will stick with this product. Only wish I would have known about it earlier. You can also buy all natural products for your carpet, yourself or to spray on your yard. The flea free is safe enough that you can eat it yourself. It can be put in water-I wouldn't recommend because who knows how much they are getting so I use the apply to dog food method. I put I tsp on top of their evening meal of holistic canned food and they inhale the stuff. My daughter lives in Florida and had been using Advantix on her tiny toy fox terrior who has a lot of health problems. Since she herself is a vegan and member of PETA I gave her this info--works great on her dog too.
Debbie 9/17/08
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I put Frontline on my dog, Phoebe, less than a week ago. The day before I put Frontline on her, she was hunting, barking, and playing. She was healthy and normal. 10 hours after applying Frontline, she couldn't walk and was clearly dying. I took her into one vet who diagnosed ehrlichia, and although we gave her the meds prescribed, she continued to spiral downwards. I took her to another vet who tested her and immediately diagnosed AIHA. My healthy, happy, beloved dog is dying, despite hospitalization, a blood transfusion and prednisone and near constant attention. I want to know if anyone else's beloved animals have experienced issues with Frontline.
Lora 7/15/08
James, thank you for your email. I just brought my dog from the vet today, and he believes she has just a few days to live. He believes that her situation has worsened based on her WBC. I will pass on this information to him. My vet is a really decent man and will hopefully pay attention to the information. Right now, my beloved friend's skin and eyes are orange-yellow, she struggles to breathe, her tongue is whitish-pink, and she has no energy... and thru it all she still has her beautiful smile, her gentle ways, and she still tries to wobble out to
meet me when I drive up.
I have reported the incident to Merial. They took a report. I told them that I want a response from them.
I will call the NPIC.
Again, thank you for the information.
Lora 7/16/08
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To James or website administer,
I came upon your website accidentally tonight and I wanted to help in you and your writers search for the great flea product. I am a veterinary technician at Suburbia North Animal Hospital for 7 years now in Texas. Being in Texas we have a huge flea, tick and mosquitoe problems along with horrible allergy sufferers - human and pet. Advantage is a great product but unfortunately it seems that the fleas are becoming immune to the product. When we heard of VECTRA of course we were sceptical. But after talking to the Vectra rep who is also a good friend of mine I feel confident that it is the answer to alot of clients/owners problems. As far as it being the same product as HARTZ that simply is not true. The huge corporation called SUMMIT is a japanese company which owns over 900 companies. HARTZ is not related to VECTRA at all. In fact VECTRA and most animal hospitals detest HARTZ because of the horrible reactions that pets have after using it, especcially cats! Just like the company Nestle who makes PURINA and MARs who makes Pedigree they make food and pet food but one company does not have to do with the other.
As I was saying we are very excited about VECTRA and COMFORTIS and if any of our clients were to have problems we will be there to help. Just like human drugs every pet is different and no matter what the product you will see negative and positive remarks on the internet. If you or any of your writers has any questions they can always e-mail me at jyanson@comcast.net. ~Jennifer Yanson
P.S. I too am a animal lover and my pitbull/child suffers from erlichia and so I am just as cautious about what kind of medicine I give her. So I understand your writers concern.
Jennifer,
Thank you for taking the time to write. I do not share your excitement over Summit VetPharm's Vectra 3D, or Eli Lilly's Comfortis.
Vectra 3D contains 36% of the pesticide, permethrin - almost as much as many of the over-the-counter flea control products (the ones that vets often warn their clients to stay away from). It also contains another pesticide (dinotefuran) and a synergist which increases the toxicity of the product.
To say that Hartz is not related to Vectra 3D at all is absurd.
Summit VetPharm is owned by the Sumitomo Corporation of America - the same corporation which owns the Hartz Mountain Corp. The Senior Director of Veterinary Services at Summit VetPharm is Dr. Albert Ahn, who happened to be the Corporate Vice President & Chief Scientific Officer at the Hartz Mountain Corp.
Vectra 3D was developed by Dr. Albert Ahn. He is listed as one of the inventors on its patent:
Comfortis is a monthy pill that contains the pesticide, spinosad. According to the manufacturer's website, "The most common adverse reaction recorded during clinical trials was vomiting. Other adverse reactions were decreased appetite, lethargy, redness of the skin, hyperactivity and excessive salivation."
If your dog experiences an acute adverse reaction to Comfortis, you cannot wash it off as you would do for a topical flea control product.
Spinosad has a mode of action that is similar to the drug, ivermectin. The FDA recently issued a warning concerning the use of Comfortis along with high, extra-label doses of ivermectin:
I am glad to hear that if any of your clients were to have problems with Vectra 3D or Comfortis, you will be there to help them. I hope that means you will be there to help them for free, or will at least contact the product manufacturer on behalf of your clients and seek reimbursement of their vet expenses.
James TerBush
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We have adopted a Potcake from the Bahamas and took her to the vet a week ago. Her blood work came back negative for heart worms and therefore gave us Advantix formula to treat heart worms, ticks and fleas. We put this on her this past Saturday 7/12/08 and by yesterday (5/15/08) mid-day she began to shake her head (as if wet) and when she does her right rear leg goes into a contraction. She was eating okay but lazy and distant. We took her to the vet that evening around 5:00 pm (yesterday 7/15/08) he looked in her ears, took her temp and sent us on our way. Last night (7/15/08) around 8:00 pm she vomited up her meal that she ate around 5:30 pm following the vet visit. This morning we took her to another vet. She had a fever of 103 and is being held there following a blood draw but the results wont come in till tomorrow. I called the makers of Advantix and gave them the symptoms but they feel that because she (ABACO) has a fever its not the Advantix. This dog is like the stories I've read. One day happy, fun, playful and now shes got a head shake, rear legs weak, lethargic, distant and does not want to eat or drink. CAN YOU ASSIST US WITH A REMEDY????
Dwight 7/16/08
James, I was wrong it was the Advantage Multi that was used...does this change things. I already called Bayer...they gave me a case # but said because our dog had a fever, it would most likely not be related to the Advantage...the dog had a fever of 105 today at 3:30 pm its now 6:00 pm she gave her rimadil (spelling) for the fever...symptoms persist and the dog is home...very agitated from being at the vets all day in a small cage...wont stop pacing the house...wants the closet but wont stay, etc...you get the picture...I will read some of your posts you gave me...but if the Advantage Multi changes things...please let me know!!!!!!!!
Dwight 7/16/08
ABACO is not doing well this morning. The vet had us take her home last night. There are complicating factors to this story as the dog was taken (a stray) from the Bahamas and we are not aware of her history. The vet now believes this is distemper?!? I have tried to tell her that the reaction is what many have posted on your site and I can see how she'd believe it is distemper. James, you have provided a lot of info, but I do not see much in the way of a treatment! Why is this? Can you help us with some ideas...I'd love to have something to provide to the vet!!!
Dwight 7/17/08
While I too am not a vet, I do not believe in my heart that my dog has distemper. We have only had her for 3 weeks, but in that time she had no signs of any illness and when we did get her here in the States, the vet commented on how clean she was. Her symptoms come on within 48hrs of being treated with Advantage. Her blood work that was performed yesterday came back within normal ranges for RBC, WBC, etc. We are having a blood test done for distemper today which will come back tomorrow. In the meantime, we are awaiting titer tests for tick borne illness and have treated her with an antibiotic that crosses the blood-brain barrier. This antibiotic was administered yesterday and is a daily dose. We will keep her on it until all her blood work comes in. She is resting on IV, her temp is down near normal and has been given a dose of anti-convulsive meds. Should she not respond in the next 24 hours to the strong anti-biotic and the tests come back positive for distemper the choice is not good. However, should the antibiotic work along with the IV and the blood tests for tick borne illness and distemper be negative, were happy!
James, thank you for your assistance. I have to tell you, in my heart, I believe its the Advantage!! Since giving her the treatment, she is not the same wonderful animal. And since this experience, I learned that my neighbor lost her Sheppard a few years back to Advantix. Just makes me so sad that this treatment can have such devastating effects!!
Dwight 7/17/08
Hello James,
I have been meaning to write with an update, but its been a difficult time. We had to put ABACO down...her condition deteriorated quite rapidly and culminated in seizures with her temp reaching 107 degrees. To make a long story short, all of her blood work was within normal limits and the distemper titers were negative. A neurological vet that has a lot of experience with the Bahamian Potcake indicates that there are several neurological conditions she sees which are all progressive in nature. She has not ruled out rabies, however in speaking with a vet in the area that this beautiful creature came from, rabies has not been reported in many years!!! However, our vet has submitted tissues to the State for analysis...The neurological condition the specialist feels is most likely is GME...and the form that is most progressive...in reading about it, its plausible... but the vet in the Bahamas has her opinions too...so we are left with some unanswered questions and a broken heart...I will forward some pics to you of ABACO...from the pics you will see she is in large part a Pharaoh Hound mixed with terrier...I cant tell you how much I appreciate your help and the value of your website for pet owners!! Should you have any other questions, please feel free to email me or call me. I will contact you once we have the results from the rabies testing!
Dwight 7/24/08
I hope to have a pic uploaded to email to you. As I said to you in a previous email, I did not expect the vets to find anything in her multiple tests and still, in my heart, believe the Advantage Multi is the culprit. Will not be able to prove it, but since, to date, all her tests were negative, its the only thing that is not explained...I had a few vets tell me it COULD NOT be the Multi and that the tests the company does basically allows the test subjects to ingest tubes of the product. However, my wife and I now have heard radio commercials for the product and at the end of the commercial state the possible side effect which include seizures and possible death...exactly ABACO'S fate...I will keep you posted.
Dwight 7/24/08
To see a photo of ABACO, click here.
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I just read some entries at your website........I have a Maltese who I rescued about 10 and half wks. ago...I'd taken him immediately to my vet and he used whatever flea control he normally uses which I think was Advantage and then he was so badly matted etc. after the flea control had been on him over 24 hrs. I bathed him, then took him the 3 rd day to a groomer to bathe and clip as his nails were grossly overgrown and his hair needed leveled out from all the mats the vet and I had clipped from him. He was in very poor condition physically, but approx. 3 yrs. old. In the past 10 wks. he's gained 3 lbs and had become quite bouncy, had never really played a whole lot, slept a lot, but being in poor physical condition I was not surprised. He'd apparently been through a lot of emotional abuse as well! I took him to a different groomer 2 weeks ago who reclipped him and bathed him, had put a sunscreen on him because of his excessive short coat and pink skin. When I got him home from the groomer I'd noticed one flea, but it didn't seem to stay around, but then a week later I noticed another flea so Hartz Ultra Guard pLus had been highly reccommended to be as good as the "vet" flea control and not as toxic or as expensive. I bought some, put it on him as prescribed on the package. Looking back since the day I put it on him, I'd noticed him trembling or shaking some, also seemed to be shaking his ears a lot....but I thought perhaps his earmite infestation had come back so I cleansed his ears per prescription! On the day he'd had the Hartz UltraGuard Plus on 6 days, I had to be gone most of the day, though was in and out a couple of times to check on him and allow him potty time! When I finally came home about 7:30 p.m., I fed him supper and then took him for his walk, in which he had a BM as usual....no change in the stool consistency or anything. But 2-3 mins. after he had that BM, he just walked over to the edge of the grass and layed down and started having a grand mal seizure. He was not incontinent of urine or bowel, but he'd just done both. I picked him up, immediately suspected the Hartz UltraGuard Plus, but didn't stop but took him to the emergency pet clinic locally. Told the vet what had happened. He was at first reluctant to accuse the Hartz UltraGuard Plus because of the time frame.....he checked him out all over, the dog continued to be very tense, nervous, barky when not held....the vet had them do a detoxifying bath and gave him some valium IV.....we came home, the dog continued for over an hr. to be excessively hyper, he was very thirsty and ravenous...but when an hr. passed he began to be drowsy and I stayed beside him until he was nearly fast asleep. He wanted to go to his bed so I let him. I checked on him very frequently through the night, he got up twice to go out to urinate at my coaxing, but able to do so with physical deviation. He at first didn't want any breakfast, but he'd gotten a treat earlier when he was up, so I didn't think too much about his lack of appetite. He finally got into his dog food while I ate my breakfast. His morning BM and walk was as usual. Today he's very sleep, but after a hard day fretting with me gone, the hard seizure I saw and probably others and the Valium, I'm not too concerned. His nose was dry this a.m. on arising but later was wet and cool. He does open his eyes when I make a noise or move about the room! His sleepiness doesn't bother me.....I'd wondered about giving him another bath, but I don't know how much the vet's office bathed him and with what! I will not use Phenothrin nor Methoprene either again on him. I will call the two different groomers and see what flea shampoo they used on him....I suspect he had a buildup and when he got distressed and hot, it threw him into full overload of toxicity. I am watching him closely today!
Sharon 7/17/08
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(Below is an update to a message posted by Norma on 4/21/08)
Dear James,
to update you on my problem with Farnam, they are not going to do anything for us because we did not have a necropsy done. Even though the vet documented everything they are not going to do anything - I don't know what way to go with this do you have any suggestions?
copy of their response is the attachment.
with all these people that you have listed on your website and some of them having been reimbursed - how can we get enough of this info so that a class action or something can be done to Farnam. waiting for your response and
Thank-you
Norma 7/21/08
(See Norma 8/13/08 for update)
Thank you for sending me the letter that you received from Farnam.
I am very sorry to hear that Farnam has refused to take responsibilty for the deaths of your two dogs. They claim that seizures and death "are not expected side effects from the correct use of this product," but seizures and death have been reported in dogs after the use of Bio Spot for years, so Farnam should expect it to happen until they change the formula or withdrawal the product from the market.
Here is another report of a Chihuahua that experienced seizures and died after Bio Spot was applied to her:
http://www.biospotvictims.org/2008-04.html (see Dawn 4/24/08)
http://www.biospotvictims.org/2008-07.html (see Dawn 7/23/08)
As you can see, she contacted Farnam, who transferred her to the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. They paid to have a necropsy performed on her dog back in April, but she is still waiting for Farnam to accept responsibility for her dog's death and reimburse her for the veterinary expenses.
It would have been best if a necropsy was done on your dogs, and Farnam should have offered to pay for it, but they should not use it as an excuse not to help you.
James TerBush
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I recently purchased (Sun - 7/20) Biospot and put it on my two dogs at around noon. The toy poodle a few hours later acted funny, like she had fleas or something was bothering her or she had a tummy ache. All afternoon and into the evening she ran around, could not sit, lay down, nap, sleep, was restless, agitated and panting. The night, I stayed up with her in the basement and the only way she would finally drift off to sleep is like was mentioned before, I'd have to stroke her. In the a.m we got up and she was at it again. I stayed home with her the next day Monday and it dawned on me - it must be the stuff I put on her for fleas. I got through to their center, they connected me to a vet who told me to wash her several times with Dawn. Give her Benadryl. I washed her 3 times, gave Benadryl. I had given it to her the night before too. I called my vet to confirm if this was correct and to also make an appointment to make sure. He never heard of this before - Oh great, how can this be treated? Small small improvement. She seemed happy but exhausted. Her legs are giving out. The night was just the same, I tried to go to sleep but she was pacing, frantic, wanting me to pick her up, she didn't want us to go to bed, etc. We've broken her of her clinginess. I fear it's all lost. I also fear I'm going to lose it and hurt her. She is starting to make me angry. I spent another night in basement, trying to sleep with her. Today, Tuesday, very miniscule improvement. I went to the vet in the am. She had other issues that were looked at too, so it was kinda a 6 month check up too. He felt no long term damage done, she looked actually like she'd recover soon. But when? I finally had to leave her alone today so I could take my mind off of it, and go grocery shopping. Right now she continues to pace, however, if forced, she can sit for a few seconds. -A few seconds? Does anyone know when she'll finally snap out of it? I'm going to keep feeding her the Benadryl. Is there something stronger? The vet didn't give me anything and I do not think the Benadryl is working. I fear if I go through another sleepless night, I'm going lose it and regret my actions. I'd like to lock her up somewhere but where in tiny house and she would probably just start screaming. I fear I may have to put her down because of the neurology problems if this continues. Any suggestions - Do you think she will return to her old self soon? Her symptoms really aren't as bad as the others, but were going on over 3 days now. The other dog, a Cairn is doing Okay- The vet also encouraged after a few weeks try another brand. I do believe he is probably correct, she had a sensitivity or reaction to one ingredient, but which one? He was going to try and find something else that had none of the matching ingredients. I'm waiting or I may go back to her old stuff months from now. I'm not mad at this company because I feel it is an unfortunate reaction. I wish I could get her to sit and lie down and sleep. Stop pacing.
Diane 7/22/08
Glen Ellyn, IL
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I have a 9 month old shih tzu /peekinese mix & his name is Toby. I live in Southern Ohio, so obviously he was in some need of frontline. I've heard a lot of great things about that product, and bought the correct dosage according to his height/weight etc. Once I put the product on him, he seemed fine. However, the very next day, I noticed he was shaking his head frantically as if something was inside his ears. I checked thinking there may have been a tick or a flea. But there was nothing. 2 days later, toby wakes me up at 3 a.m. crying, and wimpering. I checked on him, and noticed he was having a very difficult time breathing. He was getting sick & foaming at the mouth. I was in full panic mode & had no idea what to do. I immediately hopped online to checkout some forums on frontline for dogs. I stumbled across this site, and knew immediately what to do. I read the dalmation story about Hamish & that's what did it for me. He had a rough night, but overall he seems to be okay. I'm hoping I washed it off in time, but I do know the medication is still in his system. I will NEVER buy frontline again in fear that it could seriously KILL my dog. It truely is amazing how our pets can become like family members, and for me to be able to do nothing to help toby when he couldn't breathe broke my heart! All because of some medication that is all the "hype" for animals. I would NEVER recommend this product for anyone, and I do hope they get enough reports to have it taken off the market. This website is great, and if it weren't for it, than I may not have known frontline was the cause. So thank you so much for everyones' feedback & advice!
Chrissy 7/23/08
Ohio
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(Below is an update to a message posted by Dawn on 4/24/08)
Thank you so much for your obvious concern over this situation happening all too often it seems. The necropsy was done at the U of Il.Vet Diagnostic Lab. Necropsy found no probable cause for the seizures. Death was result of bronchopneumonia, edema lungs from the seizures. Could not find valid cause of seizures. The report indicates samples collected for a toxicology study if needed. The bills have been sent to Farnam from my vet. The vet at ASPCA indicated that all cases are reported to FDA. In hindsight I probably should have let the rescue's vet arrange the necropsy. We have a lot of those done when we lose dogs suddenly and no apparent reason, especially litters that have already received shots, etc. The lab printed out the results on 5/1 but when I called the ASPCA several times for the results they did not have yet?? Finally got answers on 6/16 per call. Then called Farnam and my info was relayed to "corporate for review". Then got call 6/19 from a Sherri Pike at the Phoenix office. Requested copy for me and to vet that date. Still waiting to see if they take care of vet bill and all.
None of other dogs here treated with Biospot the day ChiChi was got sick. But a month or so later when bathed and treated 2 dogs up for adoption I did observe some spitting up/loose stools later that night. I quickly bathed both and kept under close eye. I have tossed the BioSpot. We had started ordering/using Biospot back years when came out---lot less $$ and we care for hundreds of dogs. Never a problem. Makes me wonder if [they] changed [the] formula along the way??
So sorry people are losing pets like this!! Applaud what you are doing to help. Would like permission to send this on to head of my rescue and if OK to send out to other rescues. To educate and keep this from happening. Obviously, this is a mission for you! God Bless your efforts on behalf of his creatures.
Dawn 7/23/08
Well, checked the mail and got letter from Farnam. Denying any fault or to pay vet bills for ChiChi. Why am I not surprised? Obviously they cited the exact cause of death. Even the vet last talked to at ASPCA agreed that she probably aspirated during the seizures. The necropsy had said death was due to severe acute necrosuppurative bronchopneumonia with intralesional bacteria. I questioned this with the vet at ASPCA when she read it to me. Probably resulting from intense seizure activity. Of course my question was "yes, but what brought on the seizures to begin with?" Duh.
After last using the Biospot here on 2 dogs up for adoption and seeing they react by spitting up/loose stools I will not use any more of the product.
We, the public and pets, may be in a no win situation no matter what products used. Not sure if having a necropsy done through our own vet will be able to prove more? Appreciate your attention and interest in this matter.
Dawn 7/26/08
St. Francis Animal Rescue, TN
Thank you for the update. I am very sorry to hear that Farnam has refused to accept responsibility for ChiChi's death and will not reimburse your vet expenses or compensate you for your loss. If possible, could you please send me a copy of the letter that Farnam sent you? I would like to post it on my website (I will black out your last name and address).
I received email on 4/21 from a woman who used Bio Spot on her three Chihuahuas. Two of them had a severe reaction (including seizures) and died shortly afterwards. Her story is posted here:
http://www.biospotvictims.org/2008-04.html (see Norma 4/21/08)
Farnam refused to accept responsibilty for her dog's deaths because she did not have a necropsy done. The letter that Farnam sent to you her is posted here:
http://www.biospotvictims.org/2008-07.html (see Norma 7/21/08)
I would give your vet a copy of the necropsy and the letter that Farnam sent to you. If your vet disagrees with Farnam's interpretation of the necropsy, and believes that the bronchopneumonia and pulmonary edema were most likely caused by the seizures, and that the seizures were most likely the result of an overdose of the pesticide in Bio Spot, then I would ask your vet to write a letter to Farnam on your behalf.
I am going to forward your messages to the EPA in Washington, D.C. They may be interested in seeing how Farnam handled your case. I am also going to urge the EPA to investigate Farnam to determine if they have EVER accepted responsibility for a dog's death based on the results of a necropsy that was arranged and paid for by the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. It's possible that Farnam is reimbursing the ASPCA for any necropsy in which Bio Spot is suspected of causing a severe adverse reaction. If so, it is a potential conflict of interest.
James TerBush
Website Administrator for:
I am so glad you are being a advocate on this issue. Today I found out something very very questionable about the whole necropsy situation.. I was not born yesterday. I guess someone is counting on we folks accepting things blindly. You may have not been aware of this. I had just talked to my sis who works at the local vet here that saw my dog within 20 minutes of onset seizures. Something rattled my brain and decided to call the U of Illinois vet lab, 217-333-1620. What I received from Farnham was the gross autopsy and histopath report. It does state at bottom of pg 1 "samples are collected for toxicology in case testing becomes warranted". So I called to see why no tox report.
This lab does not have a toxicologist any longer and has to send the samples out to be studied. ?????? Does this raise a big red flag for you as it did me? That is NOT a complete autopsy. I am sure ASPCA, Farnham and all the others know toxicologies are not being done. I may not be the only person to catch on to this but they probably count on us to accept the "final report" at face value.
If I was not all too familiar with necropsies and what they can show, etc. and not been in rescue for over 14 yrs now I might be easier to fool. Yes, someone is counting on the way all this is handled from the time you call Biospot and are transferred by them to this ASPCA poison reporting system to make the public feel someone cares. I admit I was also blindsided with the ASPCA involved. I should know better!!! Been alive long enough to know the real dirt is way up at the top of the ladder.
The female I talked to when [I] called the lab seemed a bit taken aback by my call? I could only talk to her. The vet is the one they would discuss things with. She even seemed surprised when I read her the statement about samples having been collected for tox. I guess the American public is supposed to be really naive and clueless. They yanked the wrong chain here. I assured her I would discuss all this with my vet. Called my sister back and she was going to re read my dog's file and bring all this to the vet's attention tomorrow. Basically, the necropsies are a farce since no tox will be done and that would be vital to this situation. This is not over yet. Do not know how I will even pay the vet bill for her care here let alone to get the samples to a lab here for testing. But I feel the public needs to know what is really going on behind the guise of this ASPCA relationship with the companies. Yes, they or someone paid for her body to go to the lab there and for the necropsy. Knowing without a tox report that the pet owner has little chance of proving any blame. I am pissed off right now. I will send the letter and lab report on to you. I want to "lay low" until I get those samples!!!! They just might go POOF if [I] raise too much attention to case. Does that make sense?? Will speak with local vet tomorrow and find out the lab the rescue uses for all our necropsies. There is much more to all this I fear. And the reports being sent on to EPA, etc are misleading at best. I did do search on Biospot and found a few other sites like yours exposing problems.
Maybe these folks thought they were dealing with some Southern hick. Due to my own toxic exposure for 8 yrs in work place and having been left disabled to work since 1999, I do know a bit about toxicity issues. I also have the time to research and advocate. And I am actually a Damn Yankee born in Easton, PA!!!
Dawn 7/28/07
(Below is email that I sent to the U.S. EPA)
----- Original Message -----
From: james@elversonpuzzle.com
To: Overbey.Dian@epamail.epa.gov ; gesalman.claire@epa.gov
Sent: Thursday, August 21, 2008 7:25 AM
Subject: Fw: BioSpot/just lost my chihauhau
Dear Ms. Overbey,
I would like to bring to your attention four emails (attached) that I received from Dawn [deleted] concerning the death of her dog shortly after applying Bio Spot Flea & Tick Control for Dogs (EPA Reg. No. 270-278).
In the last six years, I have received many emails (which are posted on my Bio Spot website) concerning severe adverse reactions in dogs from Bio Spot. Some of these emails mentioned that when they called Farnam (the manufacturer of Bio Spot) to report the suspected adverse reaction, Farnam transferred them to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Veterinarians at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center advised the callers that Bio Spot for Dogs does not cause severe adverse reactions in dogs (the vets said that it only causes severe adverse reactions in cats). In fact, one person mentioned to me that the veterinarian at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center was very defensive about it - insisting that Bio Spot for Dogs does not cause severe adverse reactions in dogs.
I called the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and spoke with one of their veterinarians (Dr. Youssef). He told me that Bio Spot for Dogs does not cause severe adverse reactions in dogs. He also advised me that he is not aware of ANY cases of Bio Spot for Dogs causing severe adverse reactions in dogs. I told him I found that difficult to believe, and asked him to visit my Bio Spot website.
The emails below are particularly alarming because they involve an incomplete necropsy that was performed and paid for by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center's lab at the University of Illinois. NO TOXICOLOGICAL TESTS WERE PERFORMED IN THIS CASE, DESPITE THE FACT THAT POISONING FROM BIO SPOT WAS SUSPECTED. Farnam refused to reimburse Ms. [deleted] for her veterinary expenses because the necropsy did not find that the cause of death was related to the use of the Bio Spot.
As Ms. [deleted] stated in her email, she called the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center's lab at the University of Illinois to find out why no toxicological tests were performed in her case. She was told that they no longer have a toxicologist! They must send samples out for toxicology, but that was not done in Ms. [deleted] case because they apparently deemed that it was not warranted.
I find it difficult to believe that the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, which promotes itself as being "the premier animal-oriented poison control center in North America," no longer has a toxicologist at their University of Illinois lab. I also find it incomprehensible that they would not perform toxicological tests in a case where poisoning from a pet pesticide product was suspected.
Farnam pays the ASPCA Animal Product Safety Service to manage their adverse event cases. Here is information about this service:
Here are excerpts:
"Incomparable veterinary and toxicology expertise"
"Unsurpassed credibility"
"Medical expertise key to differentiate product reaction from disease condition"
I suspect that Farnam authorized and paid for the necropsy performed in Ms. [deleted] case. If so, this is a conflict of interest.
I urge the EPA to investigate the relationship between the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and Farnam (as well as other manufacturers of pet pesticide products that have a contract with the ASPCA to manage their adverse event cases). Specifically, when the ASPCA performs a necropsy on a dog where poisoning from a pet pesticide product is suspected, how often do they perform toxicological tests? Has the ASPCA ever found that a dog's death was related to a pet pesticide product, especially a product covered by their Animal Product Safety Service?
Thank you in advance for looking into this matter.
Sincerely,
James TerBush
Website Administrator for:
I do thank you for such a well written letter to the EPA. I am in process of a letter back to Farnam per their denial. There is indeed a obvious conflict of interest issue here. I am not the only pet owner who looked to this ASPCA involvement as being totally legit and in the best interest of the animals harmed. What pet owner would question the ASPCA or the National Humane Society? They are the agencies that we assume are really looking out for the welfare of all animals.
I highly encourage any pet owner that suspects a death as result of any flea/tick product to have their vet arrange for a necropsy at the appropriate Vet College lab. I understand it may not be as costly as one might think. Many states have a lab. I wish I had not been so naive. We may never know for sure but I do know that on a Friday I bathed several healthy dogs and treated them with appropriate dose of BioSpot. I do know that by noon on Sunday my chihauhau was in full blown seizures. I am very educated about seizures in dogs per over 14 years in rescue. I followed standard protocol and had assistance from a visiting friend. She also was educated per protocol. I do know that 2 of the dogs seemed to be ok from that dosing. However, a month later I bathed those same 2 dogs and treated. I did not apply a full dose to either. Later that day they both had very loose stools and one was pukey. I promptly bathed both again. It is hit or miss it seems. But any death or illness is too much.
It is obvious when calling Farnam and listening to the directory options that this must be a common phone call they receive. There are 3 options and 2 deal with suspected problems either in human or pet. That alone should be a red flag! The EPA needs to do some homework. Make their own "calls" and see how the process works. Do not take our word. I should think the EPA can search the internet just like I did. There are way too many pet stories like mine to be just a cooincidence.
The tragedy of the pet food recall fiasco should alert the EPA that anything is possible. Greed is a big motivator. We cannot keep assuming that the very companies that make pet products are in it for the betterment of our pets. Look at the prices on these products! Who knows if a "formula" gets changed from the formula that was approved by the EPA. Granted, our rescue started using BioSpot years back and never a problem. At least no deaths. The product was more affordable for a rescue situation to involve the treatment of large number of dogs. We are sitting on a fairly large order of BioSpot right now. We do not want any more dead dogs or at best, sick dogs.
In this day and age of the internet we do not have to live in ignorance. There is a wealth of valid information available to all. As we were alerted to the pet food recall so can we be alerted to other dangers out there for our pets. I urge the EPA to take this seriously. Someone needs to really care about the welfare of our animals. At this time I put no faith in the ASPCA Poison Control Center. This is not just about danger to pets. What about the person applying the product or children exposed to the pet being treated???? Now that is the bigger issue of all this. Neurotoxic chemicals are used to kill the fleas and ticks. Who can we count on to investigate the illness in a person exposed to the products? Wake up time.
Thank you again,
Dawn 8/24/08
St. Francis Animal Rescue (TN)
See Dawn's update (Dawn 11/5/08)
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I was reading your web site today on the problems with today's flea medications. It was pretty scary to read. I have used Frontline Plus for many years and have not had any problems with it. I live in Florida, and fleas are such a big problem down here. It seemed like the Frontline product that I was using was just not working anymore. After talking with a couple of Vets they all had the same opinion that Frontline was no longer working like it use to. There is a new flea med out on the market called "Comfortis" have you heard of it? Has anyone wrote in about if they have tried it or not? If not I'll be the first. I have only tried Comfortis one time, and I had no problems with it. One of the biggest problems was that dogs would become sick to their tummy's and throw up. This did not happen with my dog, a 5 year old Chow. Although my dog was not "infested" with fleas, I did see a few on her and she was itching a lot. And even after a bathed her, within like 2 weeks I'd start to feel "flea dirt" on her. So I tried the Comfortis and it is amazing how well it works. Fleas die within an hour, no more itching, no flea dirt, I have yet to even see a flea on her. With frontline plus, I'd always see a flea or two on her. Both of my Vets have high praise for Comfortis, however I was talking to a Vet tech over at the PetSmart store and she said that the drug is "too new, and it could cause liver problems and their Vets won't sell it, or sell Frontline". So now I'm not sure if I should even keep my dog on this new flea pill or not. Any thoughts from you?
Susan 7/27/08
Hi Susan,
I am not a vet or an expert on the subject, and do not know very much about Comfortis. I have not received any compaints about it, but that's not unusual for a new product. Here are some other websites that are talking about Comfortis:
The active ingredient in Comfortis is spinosad - an insecticide that is derived from a microorganism found in soil. Spinosad received the Presidential Green Chemistry Award in 1999 and is promoted as being an "environmentally friendly" insecticide because it does not persist in the environment and it is said to have low toxicity to mammals and birds. However, it still has the potential to cause adverse effects in dogs. According to Eli Lilly's (the manufacturer of Comfortis) website, "The most common adverse reaction recorded during clinical trials was vomiting. Other adverse reactions were decreased appetite, lethargy, redness of the skin, hyperactivity and excessive salivation." It is not recommended for dogs that are pregnant, nursing, or have a history of seizures.
Spinosad has a mode of action that is similar to the drug, ivermectin. The FDA recently issued a warning concerning the use of Comfortis along with high, extra-label doses of ivermectin:
I do not believe that Comfortis is safer for dogs than other flea control products, but I am glad to hear that your dog appears to tolerate it and it is working for you. I do not like the idea of exposing animals to the pesticides in flea control products, and encourage people to try safer alternatives for flea control (there are several links for alternative flea control methods on my website). I believe that products such as Comfortis should only be used as a last resort.
I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
James TerBush
Website Administrator for:
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Here's the real deal with the FDA and the EPA (who regulate flea control products with pesticide ingredients). THEY ARE NOT DOING THEIR JOB!! Most (animal) pharmaceutical companies will not release their clinical study trials. When you ask, as I did in writing to a lead veterinarian at Merial, (producers of Frontline) not once but twice, they inform you the information is `proprietary.' And there are no gas chromatography studies (blood tests) that have been created that test the specific harmful ingredient in the blood. So they say, prove it (you can't). They say sue us (you can't cause you don't have any `proof') and the Daubert Law requires the claimant in order to file a motion to sue to have `proof' the product itself caused an adverse reaction. Know any scientists/PHd's who will publish a bona fide paper on the harmful effects of specific commercial pet products so you can show it to the judge? No, well, there aren't such folks who I have been able to locate. The EPA/FDA are extraordinarily lax and apparently don't have to inform the public at any great length why they have approved a (pet) product line....or report follow-up checks and balances to the public after they receive adverse reaction reports. If the current Bush Administration had anything to add they want to make it even harder to potentially question or attempt to sue government regulatory agencies. Most lawyers, as sympathetic as they are will not touch these type cases. There is no advocate for us. I have tried for two years. The pharmaceutical companies know they have you over a barrel and that's exactly where they intend on keeping you. Your pet almost died/ passed away from a commercial heartworm/flea product?...ah well. They have nothing to say. People should be outraged. But apparently we can be silenced quite easily. Nobody responds and few ask why. It's pretty disgusting.
Jan 7/30/08
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Friend had supplied me with K9 Advantix 100 as her dog was staying with me temporarily. Never used [it] on him but am beginning to wonder if SHE had used it as dog has been very very sickly, has ended up living with a friend who is a veterinarian so as to monitor. Symptoms lack of appetite, straining to pass stool, eventually shock, has every test known to mankind since living with my friend (veterinarian) no specific results but dog is much better. I will call and ask this evening but so [far do] not believe he uses any flea preventative.
Anyhow I used [it] on my own two (Scottish Deerhounds) older dog (8) no reaction Younger bitch (6) has always been a sort of "itchy" type. God knows why I used [it] as I have seen neither fleas or ticks but it is warm and humid here in southern Tier New York. Anyhow within a day hair between shoulder has thinned some, small scabs, dog is even more quiet than usual although otherwise seems okay.
My question - Why specifically Dawn? I am off to pick some up and give her a bath as all I have at the moment is oatmeal shampoo.
Shay 7/31/08
Whenever an adverse reaction to a flea control product is suspected, it's best to wash it off immediately with a mild dish detergent (like Dawn) and thoroughly rinse it off (the dish detergent will help dissolve the oil carrier in the product). If the flea control product is not washed off soon after application, some of it will be absorbed into your dog's system and it will take longer (possibly days or weeks) for your dog to recover from the effects of it.
James TerBush
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My dog had reaction to Sergeant Flea and tick 'gold' preventative - the 'squeeze on' kind that goes on the neck/back.
I had no idea these products were so toxic. I had never used any of these types of products, but had heard the flea & tick problem was getting bad in our area. So I bought the product at Meijer (local grocery chain) and applied on the nape of his neck, not giving it a 2nd thought. My poor 50 lb black lab was so miserable within an hour. he kept getting up, lying down, switching positions.... I knew something was bothering him..... I didn't even connect it with the flea preventative - thought it was perhaps a simple stomach ache. But then soon, he began drooling/salivating excessively. That's when I rushed him to the Emergency vet. (it happened on a Sunday - my regular vet not open.) They induced vomiting, hydrated him with fluids via IV, bathed him, and thank goodness after almost 4 hrs at the ER, I was able to take him home..... and he was OK.
Just wanted to let you know about my experience. Thanks for posting the website.
Margaret 7/31/08
Sergeants Gold Squeeze-On for Dogs is the most toxic flea control product on the market.
The EPA was aware that Sergeants Gold Squeeze-On for Dogs caused adverse reactions in dogs (including head shaking, vomiting, and body tremors) before they approved it for sale. Sergeants argued that such effects "can be considered normal dog behavior," but the EPA didn't buy it. They made Sergeants revise their application instructions in an effort to prevent dogs from ingesting it.
Here is an EPA memorandum concerning the toxicity of Sergeants Gold Squeeze-On for Dogs:
Here are excerpts:
"Subsequently (memorandum dated June 27, 2005), TRB reviewed findings from an efficacy study (MRID 46166109) in which all 6 dogs treated at what was supposedly a 1X dose showed symptoms which included head shaking and/or slight body tremors."
"The most likely explanation for the symptoms (including tremors) observed in the efficacy study was that the dogs ingested some of the test material after application."
"Current directions for the application of this product specify to apply as a stripe from the back of the neck to the base of the tail. If labeling is revised to specify application of the product from the back of the neck to a point midway between the neck and tail then the dog would not be able to reach any part of the application site and so would be unable to ingest the product by licking. With this labeling revision TRB would have no objections to the registration of the proposed product."
To the best of my knowledge, Sergeants Gold Squeeze-On for Dogs is the only flea control product on the market that advices you to apply it from the back of the neck to a point midway between the neck and tail. Of course, if there are two or more dogs in the household, it won't prevent the other dog(s) from licking the product off of the treated dog. It may also not prevent the treated dog from developing adverse reactions.
James TerBush
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DISCLAIMER: Below are messages that I have received from others whose dogs and cats experienced adverse reactions after using flea control products. I have no way of knowing if the information in these messages is factual, or if the products they used were the actual cause of the adverse reactions.
