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What flea/tick/heartworm meds are safe for sensitive dogs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 2 years and 6 months old

I have a lab and and her Bravecto and Interceptor seem to irritate her and turn her pink and she gets spots. Our vet just keeps recommending chemical based products. She is better with Frontline but will still have irritated skin for about four days. It took a few tries and I found food she does well with and it is not always available through Chewy. Needing a little help for a sensitive dog. Thank you!, Alisha

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2018

If Adam seems to have skin problems secondary to food allergies it is possible that she is reacting to the flavoring in the Bravecto and Interceptor. You may want to look into using unflavored Heartgard and something like a Seresto collar (although this could cause topical skin irritation similar to the Frontline). Unfortunately there is no chemical free heartworm preventative, and most ‘natural’ options for flea prevention contain essential oils that don’t work well and can even cause harm.

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