An article came out in USA Today on March 3, 2021 that raised many pet owner’s concerns about the safety of Seresto flea and tick preventative collars. In an effort to keep our Harmony family informed, we are sharing the article link, as well as, addressing the issues it presented.
While the information in the article is concerning and warrants caution and vigilance, it’s important to critically evaluate the information and acknowledge that there were several inaccuracies, assumptions, and opinions presented as facts in this article. If your pet has been using a Seresto collar without incident, it is highly unlikely that your pet will develop an issue and, in our experience with this product, we believe that you can continue to safely use Seresto collars.
We’ve had many staff and clients using this collar over many years without any major issues. If we see significant side effects from any preventatives or medications that we recommend in our own pets or our clients’ pets, we will immediately share that information, just as we sent out an email following the publication of this article. We want to let you know as our clients, in response to this article, that none of us working here at Harmony who use Seresto collars on our own personal pets removed the collar or has decided to discontinue using Seresto collars for our fur babies.
Have you been considering a Seresto collar for your small furry friend? With so many conflicting reports about their safety, it’s no wonder pet parents are confused! I’ve spent hours researching this controversial topic to help you make an informed decision about whether these popular flea and tick collars are truly safe for your little pup.
What Exactly Are Seresto Collars?
Seresto collars are flea and tick repellent collars designed to provide long-term protection for your dog They’re marketed as a convenient solution with some appealing features
- 8 months of continuous protection
- Water-resistant (remains effective after swimming or bathing)
- Non-greasy and odorless design
- No monthly applications needed
- Adjustable fit for different sizes
The Seresto collar for small dogs is specifically designed for pups under 18 pounds and puppies 7 weeks of age or older At around $60-$63, it’s not the cheapest option, but the 8-month protection period makes it seem cost-effective compared to monthly treatments
How Do Seresto Collars Work?
The science behind these collars involves two active pesticide ingredients:
- Flumethrin (4.5%) – a synthetic pyrethroid
- Imidacloprid (10%) – a neonicotinoid insecticide
These ingredients release slowly over your dog’s skin and coat through an innovative two-layer design. The collar distributes controlled doses that are supposed to kill and repel fleas and ticks without harming your pet.
The Safety Controversy: What’s Really Going On?
Here’s where things get complicated. There are two very different narratives about Seresto collar safety:
The Concerning Reports
In 2021, a USA Today investigation revealed shocking information: Seresto collars had been linked to nearly 1,700 pet deaths and thousands of injuries according to EPA documents. This prompted a US House Subcommittee investigation that later released a report titled “Seresto Flea and Tick Collars: Examining Why A Product Linked To More than 2,500 Pet Deaths Remains On The Market.”
The updated numbers were even more alarming:
- 98,000 reported incidents (up from 73,000)
- 2,500 pet deaths (up from 1,700)
Pet owners in Facebook groups have reported serious problems including:
- Seizures
- Ataxia (loss of coordination)
- Tremors
- Lethargy/fatigue/depression
- Loss of appetite
- Digestive issues (diarrhea, vomiting, blood in stool)
- Skin problems
- Vision problems
- Hair loss
- Tumors
- And tragically, death
The Congressional subcommittee’s recommendations included recalling the collars and canceling their registration.
The Manufacturer’s Response
Elanco (who acquired Seresto from Bayer in 2019) has consistently defended the product’s safety. They claim:
- The rate of adverse effects is only 17.26 per 10,000 collars sold in 2021
- Most incidents are minor or moderate
- There’s no proven link between the active ingredients and pet deaths
CEO Jeffrey Simmons stated: “No product is without risk. What matters is whether those risks are reasonable, in light of the benefits.”
What Veterinarians Say About Seresto Collars
This is where opinions really diverge. Many conventional veterinarians continue to recommend Seresto collars, stating they’ve only observed minor side effects like skin irritation. Some vets suggest the reported issues might be due to counterfeit collars rather than genuine products.
Dr. Elizabeth Trepp noted she’s “never” had issues with the collars among her patients, and many vets point out that correlation doesn’t necessarily mean causation.
However, holistic veterinarians have a very different perspective. Dr. Deva Khalsa compared using these collars to “making your dog into a poison-soaked sponge.” She warns that the ingredients circulate throughout the body and organs with enough poison to kill parasites immediately.
The Science Behind the Concerns
There are legitimate scientific reasons to be cautious about the ingredients:
Flumethrin
This pyrethroid works by paralyzing insects’ nervous systems but can cause nausea, vomiting, and seizures in mammals. Research showed that when Beagles were exposed to high doses, they developed skin lesions, vomiting, weight loss, and possible kidney damage.
Imidacloprid
This neonicotinoid has been linked to:
- Thyroid damage
- Reproductive issues (abortions and birth defects)
- Seizures and neurological problems
- Liver and organ toxicity
It’s concerning enough that the European Union has banned it for outdoor use.
Combined Effect
Most worrying is that researchers found that when these two chemicals are combined, they create “a much higher level of activity than either compound alone.” This enhanced effect on insect nervous systems might potentially affect your small dog’s nervous system too.
Is a Seresto Collar Right for Your Small Dog?
When making this decision, weigh these factors carefully:
Potential Benefits:
- Convenient 8-month protection
- No monthly applications
- Water-resistant performance
- Odorless and non-greasy design
Potential Risks:
- Possible neurological side effects
- Skin irritation
- Unknown effects of combined ingredients
- Reports of serious health issues
If you already have a Seresto collar on your small dog, monitor them closely for any changes in behavior, appetite, or health. If you notice anything concerning, remove the collar immediately and contact your vet.
Red Flags to Watch For If Your Small Dog Wears a Seresto Collar
Be vigilant for these symptoms:
- Excessive scratching or skin irritation around the neck
- Changes in energy level or behavior
- Loss of appetite
- Digestive issues
- Muscle tremors or coordination problems
- Seizures
If you notice any of these, it may be best to err on the side of caution and remove the collar.
Safer Alternatives for Flea and Tick Prevention
Thankfully, you have other options to keep your small dog pest-free:
1. Topical Treatments
Monthly spot-on treatments from reputable brands can be effective with fewer reported issues. Your vet can recommend options appropriate for small dogs.
2. Oral Medications
Pills that provide monthly protection are another alternative. Dr. Randy Wheeler, executive director of the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association, suggests these have “a wide safety margin.”
3. Natural Repellents
For those preferring a more natural approach, there are several DIY options:
- Essential oil-based sprays (using safe oils for dogs)
- Apple cider vinegar solutions
- Herbal flea powders
Making the Safest Choice for Your Small Dog
When deciding on flea and tick prevention:
- Consult your veterinarian – They can help you weigh risks based on your dog’s specific health needs and your local pest pressure
- Consider your dog’s individual factors – Age, health conditions, and sensitivities matter
- Be wary of counterfeits – If you do choose Seresto, purchase from reputable sources like veterinary offices or authorized retailers
- Monitor closely – Whatever method you choose, watch your small dog for any adverse reactions
My Personal Take
I’ve spent years researching pet products, and honestly, the number of reported incidents with Seresto collars makes me nervous, especially for small dogs who may be more sensitive to chemicals. While many dogs seem to tolerate these collars without issues, I personally lean toward alternatives with fewer reported problems.
Remember, every dog is different! What works safely for one pup might not for another. Trust your instincts as a pet parent and prioritize safety above convenience.
Final Thoughts
The debate around Seresto collar safety isn’t likely to be resolved soon. With government investigations ongoing and thousands of concerned pet parents speaking out, it’s a situation worth monitoring closely.
Have you used a Seresto collar on your small dog? What was your experience? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Remember: If you believe your dog has had a negative reaction to a Seresto collar, you should report it to the EPA and consult with your veterinarian immediately.
What flea and tick prevention do you use for your small dog? Have you found safe alternatives that work well? Share your experiences with our community!
Statistics Around Seresto Collar Safety
While the article shares that over an 8-year period there have been 1,698 possible pet fatalities and 3,767 other serious incidents reported in respect to Seresto collar usage, this is less than 0.00006% incidence worldwide when compared to over 100 million Seresto collars used (25 million of these just in the US). Statistically speaking, this is very insignificant, and has the lowest incident report compared to any other effective flea/tick preventative on the market.
The global data from the 80 countries where Seresto collars are worn show that 1 in 568 users have had an incident with the vast majority of these reports related to non-serious application site irritation, such as reddening of the skin or hair loss in the collar area (and this is true of any collar or topical preventative).
What Could Have Caused Issues with the Seresto Collar?
The collar does have pesticides to prevent fleas and ticks, while they have been deemed safe by the EPA for use on animals and in proximity to people, any chemical can cause an unexpected reaction. The pest-preventing chemical in the Seresto collar is designed to stay within the oils and oil glands of your pets skin, with no to minimal amount of absorption in to your pets body, which generally makes them very safe with few systemic reactions. If a pet has an underlying disorder or abnormality within their skin barrier that allows for more absorption of the chemical, this may lead to a systemic reaction. In regards to the reports of serious injury to people, most were in regards to injury sustained upon opening the packaging or placing the collar on their dog. For dogs, many of the incident reports were from pets actually ingesting the collar, where the eating of the plastic actually caused more problems than the chemicals. With this in mind, it is very important to dive deeper into claims about incident reports and issues with these products that are likely user error rather than product faultiness.
Unfortunately, the report in the recent article fails to differentiate between correlation and causation. Correlation is when two things happen at the same time. Causation is when the first thing causes the second. It’s always heartbreaking and unbearably sad when a pet passes away, and often times owners elect not to pursue a necropsy (which is a pet autopsy). A necropsy was offered to and declined by the clients in which the article was written about. If a necropsy and toxicology report is not performed, it’s impossible to determine the true underlying cause of death. So, while the Seresto collar may have been worn when the pet in the article died, there’s no way to know if it was a factor in the pet’s death, but it still will be included as an “adverse event” by the reporting agency. This can lead to a pet owner believing the Seresto collar is to blame when it’s possible that the dog or cat was suffering from an unrelated health problem or had access to other toxins. In speaking with the makers of Seresto, the vast majority of the reports of adverse events, there was no toxicology or necropsy performed on the pet, making it impossible to know if there was in fact a causation that the collar contributed to the pets death.
Is Seresto Collar Safe For Small Dogs? – Ask A Pet Vet
FAQ
Is seresto safe for pregnant dogs?
The safety of the Seresto collar hasn’t been established in pregnant and lactating dogs but the active ingredient imidacloprid should be used with caution in these pets. Is Seresto collar safe for puppies? Once the puppy is at least 7 weeks old then you can use the Seresto collar to protect them from fleas and ticks.
Are seresto collars safe for dogs?
Seresto collars are impregnated with the active ingredients flumethrin (4.5%) and imidacloprid (10%). These ingredients release over your dog’s skin and coat during the 8-month period. The company doesn’t disclose the inactive ingredients so we don’t know what else is in the collars. First, let’s look Seresto collar side effects.
What is seresto® for dogs?
Seresto®, the innovative flea and tick collar, is making waves in the world of canine healthcare. As a responsible pet owner, you want to ensure your furry friend’s well-being, and this article will guide you through all you need to know about Seresto® for dogs.
Can a pregnant dog use a seresto collar?
Answer: Seresto collars are not recommended for use on pregnant or nursing dogs, as the active ingredients in the collar may be passed to the puppies through the mother’s milk. It is essential to consult with your veterinarian for alternative flea and tick prevention methods during this time. 14.
Does seresto prevent anemia in dogs?
With its continuous flea control, Seresto® aids in preventing anemia in dogs. Easing Itch and Discomfort: The constant itchiness from flea and tick bites can be a source of tremendous discomfort for dogs. Seresto® helps alleviate this distress by preventing fleas and ticks from infesting your pet.
Should I switch to seresto® for my Dog?
For example, if your dog is already on an oral flea and tick medication, your veterinarian may recommend a phased transition to Seresto® or offer alternative solutions. Remember that the goal is to provide your dog with the best possible protection against fleas and ticks while ensuring their safety.
Are Seresto collars safe for small dogs?
Seresto® collars are considered safe for dogs 7 weeks of age and older and cats 10 weeks of age and older. Consult your veterinarian before use in ill, debilitated, geriatric, pregnant, breeding, or nursing pets.
What is the safest flea prevention for small dogs?
Under many circumstances, newer dog flea collars are safe options for flea and tick control (unlike older collars, which were largely ineffective). The Seresto collar is a very popular and effective option. This collar uses flumethrin and imidacloprid to repel and kill fleas and ticks, so they don’t bite pets.
What do vets say about Seresto collars?
A few brands of medicated flea collars are available, but the Seresto® collar by Elanco™ is the only one with appropriate safety and efficacy studies and is most recommended by veterinarians to pet parents looking for a flea collar. Flea collars are available for both dogs and cats.
What are the downsides of Seresto collars?
More commonly reported adverse events inude itching for dogs and hair changes near the collar application site for cats. Less common, but more serious reported adverse events, include neurological symptoms, such as convulsions or ataxia.