Frequently Asked Questions About Insects - Department of Entomology at Texas A&M University
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Frequently Asked Questions

Topic:
Fleas
Question:
I am looking for a product that will safely treat the outdoor area/dog pen for a 7-week old puppy. All of the products I have found treat older dogs. Are there any available for puppies?
Answer:
Because of puppies' and kittens' smaller size and still-developing detoxification systems, few insecticides are labeled for these young animals. The general rule of thumb is to follow the label carefully and do not use on puppies if prohibited on the label (regardless of what you may hear from me or anyone else).

You do not specify what pest you are concerned about, but you might consider an insect growth regulator, such as methoprene, for fleas. This active ingredient comes in a variety of formulations including collars, sprays and mousse. Check with your vet for safe treatment for on-animal treatment of ticks and heartworm (transmitted by mosquitos).

Many of the kennel sprays might be used safely if allowed to dry thoroughly before reintroducing the puppy to the outdoor area; but as a rule of thumb I would avoid any use of insecticides until the puppy gets a little older (how old? check with your vet). Spot treatment of suspected harborages around the yard, without a broadcast treatment of the ground and grass, might be a good compromise--especially for ticks. Until the puppy get older, just be more aware of pests and treat only as needed. For more information see our publication at http://dallas.tamu.edu/insects/FastSheets/Ent-1002.html

Related Link: http://dallas.tamu.edu/insects/FastSheets/Ent-1002.html
Related Link: http://tcebookstore.org/pubinfo.cfm?pubid=1621
Image Link: **
Response by: Michael Merchant, Ph.D.
Title:
Professor and Extension Specialist
** Most of the Related Links above also contain images.


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