Holistic Flea & Tick Prevention: How Stokeshire Raises Healthier, Happier Puppies Naturally
The short answer: Isoxazoline flea and tick medications are FDA-approved, effective, and tolerated by most dogs. The FDA also recognizes a potential for neurologic reactions: tremors, loss of coordination, and seizures, including in dogs with no seizure history. How often these reactions happen is not known. Stokeshire does not recommend avoiding parasite prevention. We recommend choosing the specific product with your veterinarian, recording every dose, and knowing what to watch for.
What isoxazolines are
Isoxazolines are a class of systemic flea and tick medications. The four main active ingredients and their best-known U.S. products are:
Afoxolaner: NexGard (also in NexGard PLUS)
Fluralaner: Bravecto Chews, Bravecto 1-Month, Bravecto topical, Bravecto Quantum injectable
Sarolaner: Simparica (also in Simparica Trio)
Lotilaner: Credelio
These drugs block chloride channels in the nervous systems of fleas and ticks, which kills the parasite. They act far more strongly on insect channels than on mammalian ones. That selectivity is why they are safe for most dogs. It is not absolute, which is why a small number of dogs react.
Formulation matters as much as the active ingredient. A monthly chew, a 12-week chew, a topical, and an injection behave differently in the body, and their labels say different things. When you talk with your vet, name the exact product, not just the drug class.
What the FDA has said
In September 2018, the FDA alerted pet owners and veterinarians to potential neurologic adverse events with isoxazoline products. The reported signs were muscle tremors, ataxia (loss of coordination), and seizures, including in dogs with no prior seizure history. Product labels were updated to reflect this.
The FDA did not recall these products and did not advise owners to stop using them. It continues to regard them as safe and effective for most dogs. Its guidance is informed use: know the risk, discuss it with your veterinarian, and watch your dog after dosing.
What is not known
The true rate of neurologic reactions is not known.
Adverse event reports show that reactions happen. They cannot show how often, because no one knows how many dogs received each product.
Reports cannot prove a medication caused a specific event, and many events are never reported.
You may see percentages online claiming a large share of dogs are harmed. Those figures come from self-selected surveys and do not describe the risk to an ordinary treated dog.
Equally, no reliable data supports a claim that the risk is "less than 1%."
The honest position is that a real safety signal exists, its frequency is uncertain, and no marketed isoxazoline has been shown to be the neurologically safest.
Why skipping prevention is not the safer choice
Fleas and ticks carry diseases of their own: Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and others. The Companion Animal Parasite Council recommends year-round, veterinarian-guided parasite control for dogs. A dog left unprotected in tick country carries its own serious risk.
The right question is not "Should my dog be on flea and tick prevention?" It is "Which product fits this dog, at this life stage, in this environment?" That question belongs to you and your veterinarian.
Pregnancy, nursing, and breeding dogs
Reproductive safety differs by product and by formulation. It cannot be assumed from the drug class.
ProductU.S. label position for breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogsNexGard (afoxolaner)Safe use not evaluatedSimparica / Simparica Trio (sarolaner)Safe use not evaluatedCredelio (lotilaner)Safe use not evaluatedBravecto 1-Month, Bravecto Quantum (fluralaner)Safe use not evaluatedBravecto Chews, 12-week (fluralaner)Evaluated in breeding, pregnant, and lactating females. The label also lists post-approval reports of birth defects, stillbirth, and abortion; frequency and cause cannot be established from those reportsFrontline Plus (fipronil + (S)-methoprene)Labeled for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs
Two points matter here:
"Not evaluated" does not mean "unsafe." It means the studies needed to confirm safety in that group have not been done.
"Evaluated" does not mean "zero risk." Bravecto Chews show why both facts need to be stated.
Frontline Plus is a different class of product, a topical pesticide, and its label coverage applies to Frontline Plus specifically. Not every Frontline product carries the same labeling.
How Stokeshire handles flea and tick prevention
Our protocol is set with our attending veterinarian.
Breeding, pregnant, and nursing dams. From breeding through weaning, our dams receive Frontline Plus, which is labeled for use during breeding, pregnancy, and lactation.
Adult dogs outside that window. After weaning, dams return to NexGard, as do our other adult dogs, under veterinary direction.
Puppies. Stokeshire puppies do not receive a flea or tick preventive before going home. Instead, we reduce exposure: bedding is changed frequently, the nursery is kept clean, and outdoor time happens in supervised, mowed areas.
Records. Every dose given to our dogs is recorded: product, lot number, dose, weight, date, and who administered it.
At go-home. Your puppy's records will note that no flea or tick preventive was given. Start prevention with your own veterinarian. Minimum ages differ by product: some are labeled from 8 weeks, while others, including Simparica and Bravecto Chews, start at 6 months. Your vet will choose based on age, weight, and your region's tick pressure.
For environmental control around your home, see The Stokeshire Yard Protocol.
A note on MDR1 and Australian Shepherd lines
Many Stokeshire dogs carry Australian Shepherd ancestry, a breed in which the MDR1 (ABCB1) gene variant is relevant. MDR1 affects how certain drugs are kept out of the brain. It is important for ivermectin and related drugs, including the moxidectin or selamectin found in some combination products such as Simparica Trio, NexGard PLUS, and Revolution Plus.
MDR1 status is not a proven predictor of isoxazoline reactions. A controlled study of MDR1-deficient Collies given fluralaner at an exaggerated dose found no treatment-related adverse effects.
If your puppy has Australian Shepherd ancestry, ask us about the parents' MDR1 status and share it with your veterinarian. Never assume a dog's MDR1 status from coat, color, or appearance.
Keep a record of every dose
The most useful habit for any owner is a written record. Each time you give a flea or tick preventive, note:
Product name and formulation (chew, topical, injection)
Active ingredient(s)
Lot number from the package
Dose given and your dog's current weight
Date and time given, and whether it was given with food
Any other medications, vaccines, or supplements given around the same time
Anything unusual in the following hours, days, or weeks
A record turns a vague worry into information your veterinarian can act on. It also makes any report you file far more useful.
If you see a possible reaction
Call your veterinarian. Tremors, stumbling, trouble standing, seizure activity, or collapse need prompt attention. Go to an emergency clinic if your vet is unavailable.
Record what you see. Note the time, describe the signs, and take a video if you can do so safely. Episodic signs are often gone by the time you reach the clinic.
Don't assume the cause. Many things can cause these signs. Your veterinarian will assess other possibilities.
Report it. For isoxazoline products, contact the manufacturer and ask for a case number. You can also report directly to the FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or fda.gov/reportanimalae. For topical pesticide products like Frontline Plus, contact the manufacturer; the National Pesticide Information Center can also help.
Don't redose without your vet. Your veterinarian should decide the next step: the same product, a different product, or a different class.
Reactions do not only happen in the first 24 hours. Delayed onset has been reported, and there is no evidence-based point after which a dog is "in the clear."
What about natural products?
Environmental management helps: mowing, clearing leaf litter, and daily tick checks after time outdoors. It works best alongside veterinarian-directed prevention, not in place of it.
Plant-based sprays and shampoos are a different matter. Many are sold as minimum-risk pesticides that EPA does not review for effectiveness. Some concentrated essential oils can also irritate skin or be harmful to pets. Talk with your veterinarian before relying on them, especially in regions with high tick pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Are flea and tick medications safe for dogs?
For most dogs, yes. The FDA considers approved isoxazoline products (NexGard, Bravecto, Simparica, and Credelio) safe and effective for most dogs. It also recognizes a potential for neurologic reactions, including tremors, loss of coordination, and seizures, even in dogs with no seizure history. How often these reactions occur is not known. The right product for your dog depends on age, weight, health history, reproductive status, and local tick pressure. Choose it with your veterinarian, record every dose, and call your vet promptly if you see tremors, stumbling, or seizure activity.
What is the FDA warning about isoxazoline flea and tick products?
In September 2018, the FDA alerted owners and veterinarians that isoxazoline products carry a potential for neurologic adverse events: muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures, including in dogs without a prior seizure history. Product labels were updated. The FDA did not recall these products and still considers them safe and effective for most dogs. Its guidance is informed use: understand the risk, discuss the choice with your veterinarian, and monitor your dog after dosing. Suspected reactions can be reported to the manufacturer or to the FDA at fda.gov/reportanimalae.
What flea and tick prevention is safe for pregnant or nursing dogs?
It depends on the exact product. NexGard, Simparica, Simparica Trio, Credelio, and Bravecto 1-Month state that safe use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs has not been evaluated. Bravecto Chews were evaluated in breeding females, but the label also lists post-approval reports of birth defects, stillbirth, and abortion. Frontline Plus is labeled for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. At Stokeshire, our dams receive Frontline Plus from breeding through weaning under our veterinarian's direction. Any decision for a pregnant or nursing dog should be made with your veterinarian.
When should my Stokeshire puppy start flea and tick prevention?
Stokeshire puppies do not receive a flea or tick preventive before going home, and your puppy's records will say so. Start prevention with your own veterinarian. Minimum ages differ by product: some are labeled from 8 weeks of age, while others, including Simparica and Bravecto Chews, are labeled from 6 months. Your veterinarian will choose based on your puppy's age and weight and the parasite risk where you live. Keep a written record of each dose, including product, lot number, weight, and date, so any question later can be answered precisely.
Can natural products replace flea and tick medication?
Not reliably. Mowing, clearing leaf litter, and daily tick checks reduce exposure and are worth doing, but they work best alongside veterinarian-directed prevention. Many plant-based sprays and shampoos are sold as minimum-risk pesticides that EPA does not review for effectiveness, and some concentrated essential oils can irritate skin or harm pets. Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and anaplasmosis are serious. Leaving a dog unprotected is not a safer choice. Discuss any natural product with your veterinarian before relying on it.
A closing note
We don't believe in fear on this topic, and we don't believe in blind trust either. We believe in knowing exactly what your dog received, why, and what to watch for afterward, and in making each decision with a veterinarian who knows your dog.
For educational reference only. This article is not veterinary advice. Product labels change; always read the current label and consult your veterinarian before starting, changing, or stopping any parasite preventive, especially for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs, or dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disease.
Sources
U.S. FDA. Fact Sheet for Pet Owners and Veterinarians about Potential Adverse Events Associated with Isoxazoline Flea and Tick Products.
U.S. FDA. 2023 Animal Drug Safety-Related Labeling Changes (Bravecto).
U.S. FDA. How to Report Animal Drug and Device Side Effects and Product Problems.
Current U.S. product labels: NexGard, Bravecto family, Simparica, Simparica Trio, Credelio.
U.S. EPA. Frontline Plus for Dogs product label (EPA Reg. No. 65331-5).
Walther FM, et al. Safety of fluralaner in MDR1(-/-) Collies after oral administration. Parasites & Vectors, 2014.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Drug sensitivity: MDR1.
Companion Animal Parasite Council. General Guidelines for Dogs and Cats.
Recommended Natural Flea & Tick Shampoos
TropiClean Natural Flea & Tick Shampoo Max – A top-rated plant-based formula, rich in lemongrass, cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, and sesame oils. It kills and repels pests, is soap-free (so it doesn't interfere with spot-on treatments), and is cruelty-free. A solid pick for washing during outdoor play seasons .
Richard's Organics Flea & Tick Shampoo – Made with 100% natural essential oils (peppermint, cinnamon, clove, cedarwood, rosemary). Paraben-free, dye-free, soap-free, and safe for dogs from 12 weeks, this vet-recognized formula kills fleas, ticks, and repels mosquitos in a gentle way .
Only Natural Pet EasyDefense Flea & Tick Shampoo – Utilizes geraniol and peppermint oil in a sulfate-free blend. Safe for all ages (puppies included) and formulated without synthetic pesticides—ideal for sensitive or developing puppy skin.
Eqyss Natural Flea & Tick Shampoo – A pH-balanced shampoo combining cedarwood and other essential oils. Clinically tested, gentle on coat and skin, and safe with topical preventatives for dogs and puppies over 12 weeks
Nature Play at Stokeshire: Building Resilience and Joy
A happy puppy is one that feels confident in the world around them. At Stokeshire, we incorporate nature play into our daily routines to nurture resilience and encourage curiosity. Puppies thrive in the great outdoors, exploring textures, sounds, and smells under our careful supervision.
The Benefits of Nature Play
Physical Stimulation
Climbing over fallen logs, racing across the grass, and chasing after fluttering leaves builds strong bodies and nimble instincts.
Mental Growth
Each adventure presents opportunities to problem-solve, creating curious and adaptable puppies.
Lifetime Calmness
Exposure to varied environments at a young age helps reduce fear and hesitation in new situations later in life. Puppies raised with nature play are more likely to remain calm and confident as adult companions.
Nature play offers more than just fun; it lays the foundation for a joyful, well-adjusted life with their future families.
Beyond the Outdoors: The Doodle School Advantage
For families who enroll their puppies in our Doodle School program, life lessons extend beyond nature play. This structured program blends outdoor enrichment with key training to prepare puppies for their future environments with ease and confidence.
Training Tailored to Real Life
Through Doodle School, puppies are introduced to:
New Textures and Sounds
From the squish of mud to the patter of rain, they learn to adapt to new sensations with ease.
Changing Weather
Whether it’s a breezy morning or a warm afternoon, they experience a variety of climates to build comfort in any setting.
Social Interactions
We guide puppies through positive interactions with other dogs and stimulate the natural friendly temperament that makes doodles so lovable.
By the time puppies graduate, they have not only mastered basic commands but also developed the poise to step into their new homes as confident, well-rounded companions.
Our Holistic Approach
At Stokeshire, we’re proud to combine modern science with the natural joy of exploration to raise exceptional puppies. Every choice we make—whether it’s flea and tick prevention, outdoor adventures, or structured training—is deliberate, thoughtful, and focused on creating the healthiest and happiest dogs possible.
If you have questions about keeping your future puppy safe or fostering a sense of resilient curiosity in the early stages, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can give every Stokeshire puppy the best start in life—because when they thrive, so do the families who welcome them.
Contact us anytime for advice or insight. Stokeshire is here to support you and your furry family every step of the way.