Bella Fiore Lagottos

A new peer reviewed study suggests popular flea and tick pills given to millions of dogs and cats may be quietly impacting the environment. Isoxazoline drugs widely prescribed to protect pets are excreted in f***s, urine, and shed hair, creating potential exposure pathways for non target wildlife. The European Medicines Agency has previously warned these compounds could contaminate ecosystems. Common isoxazolines include afoxolaner (NexGard), fluralaner (Bravecto), sarolaner (Simparica), lotilaner (Credelio), and the combination in Simparica Trio, along with products like Bravecto Plus and NexGard Spectra.

Researchers say dung feeding insects such as flies, dung beetles, and some butterflies may be especially vulnerable. These species are essential for waste breakdown, nutrient cycling, soil health, and natural pest control. In a French study, treated dogs and cats still had detectable isoxazoline residues in f***s months later, and modeling suggested routine use could lead to meaningful environmental exposure.

Separate research links other flea and tick chemicals, including imidacloprid and fipronil, to broader wildlife risks, from bees to songbird chicks exposed via contaminated pet fur. The concern is not a single dose, but the potential cumulative ripple effects of routine use across ecosystems.

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We all want to prevent unwanted litters. Hysterectomies and vasectomies offer early, safe sterilization, starting at 8 weeks, while preserving the natural hormones dogs need.

New Peer-reviewed study shows s*x hormones (like estrogen and testosterone) help the spine and discs develop properly. Removing these hormones from dogs too early can affect bone growth and disc strength, making the spine more vulnerable.

Spaying/neutering early (before 12 months) greatly increased the risk of slipped discs in French Bulldogs.

• For males:
o Early-neutered males were almost twice as likely to develop IVDH compared to intact males.
o Neutering after 12 months actually lowered their risk.

• For females:
o The effect was even stronger.
o Spayed females were about 5 times more likely to have IVDH than intact females.
o If spayed before 12 months, they were almost 10 times more likely to develop the problem.

The age you choose to spay or neuter a French Bulldog can have a major impact on their long-term spine health.

Looking for the most up-to-date, evidence-based review on spay/neuter health effects? This exclusive 2025 guide brings together the latest research to support informed, science-driven decisions for dogs.

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