💉 The New Injectable Flea & Tick Shot for Dogs: What You Should Know Before You Say Yes

A once-a-year injection that protects your dog from fleas and ticks? It sounds convenient—and for some, it might be. But as pet parents who believe in mindful, informed choices, we have to ask: what are the risks? Let’s take a look at the new injectable parasite prevention making headlines, and why some of us might want to pause before jumping in.

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📦 What Is It?

Bravecto® Quantum is a brand-new injectable flea and tick treatment for dogs, developed by Merck Animal Health. It contains fluralaner, an isoxazoline-class parasiticide—the same active ingredient found in Bravecto chews and topicals.

• Protects against fleas and three species of ticks
• One injection lasts 12 months
• Veterinary prescription only – given subcutaneously

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📍 Release Dates

Country	Status	Details
🇦🇺 Australia / 🇳🇿 New Zealand	Approved May 2023	Already available through vets
🇪🇺 Europe	Approved 2024	Rolling out across several countries
🇺🇸 United States	FDA Approved July 2025	Expected to hit clinics August 2025
🇨🇦 Canada	Not yet approved	Expected late 2025, Q3–Q4

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⚠️ Health & Safety Concerns

While Merck reports a favorable safety profile, many holistic and cautious pet owners—including us—have serious concerns about the long-term and wide-reaching effects of this drug.

🧠 1. Neurological Risks

• Fluralaner (and other isoxazolines) have been linked to seizures, tremors, and ataxia—even in dogs with no history of neurological problems.
• Adverse reactions can’t be reversed once the injection is given—this isn’t like a chew or topical that wears off.

👶 2. Human and Child Exposure

• While not topical, some fluralaner may be excreted in saliva, skin oils, or urine—especially in the first few weeks post-injection.
• Children cuddling or sleeping with recently treated dogs could be exposed through skin or saliva contact.

🐱 3. Risk to Cats and Other Pets

• Dogs may lick or mouth each other, or be groomed by cats—raising risk of cross-species exposure.
• Cats are far more sensitive to many insecticides. Even trace amounts could pose a risk.

🧬 4. No Off Switch

• If your dog has a reaction, there’s no way to "wash off" or detox an injection that lasts a full year.
• This is especially concerning for sensitive pets, dogs with autoimmune conditions, or those on other meds.

🧼 5. Impact on Gut and Liver Health

• Fluralaner is metabolized through the liver and kidneys—no long-term studies exist on what 10+ years of continuous exposure might do.
• As holistic pet lovers, we care about how drugs may affect microbiomes, detox systems, and long-term vitality—not just short-term pest control.

🌦️ 6. One-Size-Fits-All Treatment

• This injection assumes every dog, in every climate, needs constant protection all year long.
• But in many parts of Canada and the northern U.S., tick season is short, and a full year of insecticide may not be necessary.

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✅ When Might It Be Worth Considering?

• For dogs in high-risk areas with year-round exposure (e.g., southern U.S.)
• For owners who consistently forget monthly doses
• For dogs who cannot tolerate topicals or chews

Even then, it should be a fully informed decision made with a trusted vet—ideally one who respects a conservative, wellness-first approach.

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🌱 Natural & Seasonal Alternatives

We always advocate for least-harm methods when possible:

• Seasonal use of milder flea/tick options
• Herbal flea/tick sprays made with neem, cedarwood, or lemongrass
• Regular tick checks after outdoor play
• Diet and immune support to make your dog less appealing to parasites

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🐾 Final Thoughts

The convenience of a once-a-year flea and tick shot is tempting. But when you prioritize long-term health, safety of your home, and flexibility of treatment—you may find that this injectable just doesn’t align with your values.

At Pets Dig This, we believe in transparency, education, and informed consent. Your dog’s health is yours to protect—and that means asking questions, weighing options, and choosing what feels right for your pet, not just what’s marketed as “easy.”

Have you been offered Bravecto Quantum at your vet clinic yet? What are your thoughts or experiences? Let’s talk about it—drop a comment or tag us @PetsDigThis.