In January 2013, Bayer Animal Health released a product called Seresto. This is a collar that kills and protects against fleas and ticks for 8 months for dogs and cats. Collars have gotten a bad name due to the smell, powder, inefficacy, and toxicity in the past years. Some Hartz brand products have even killed cats. A traditional flea collar only works in the area is is touching, if it works at all. Seresto is different. The medication is INSIDE the collar and is slowly released over 8 months, protecting against fleas AND ticks. There is no odor or powder. The collar is break away for safety, and if your pet loses it, Bayer will replace it. It is waterproof, however, if your pet swims a lot (daily for weeks on end,Scott our Bayer rep says) the collar will only last 5 months. This is an innovative and cost effective product as you will get flea and tick protection for your pet at around $8.00 a month. To celebrate the launch of Seresto, Bayer is offering a $20 mail in rebate, making the cost of flea and tick protection $5.60 a month! This is the only collar you will need for tick season and possibly flea season as well, depending on the weather. Seresto collars are now available at Fountain City Veterinary Hospital. Stop in if you would like to see one, or email me at fountaincityvet@live.com if you would like more information.

Callie Rettig, R.V.T., Practice Manager

*note* $20 rebate is not available if Seresto is purchased online