Three nights ago, my wife bathed our two dogs (one a Yorke mix) the other (Bishonapoo). She used Sargents Flea and Tick shampoo. Following this I applied Sagrents Gold (for small dogs 9lbs -20 lbs. Our smaller dog (about 8 lbs) didn't have an immediate reaction, but the Bisonapoo (12lbs) did. We usually get their flea medication from the vet, but I thought an over the counter type would be OK for a couple of weeks. We had never used Sargents before, so this was our first experience with their 30 day control tubes.
Within an hour, the Bishonapoo started to shake, pant very heavily and tried to claw himself. After realizing he was having such a reaction, we read the label and did as it instructed. We rebathed him in mild soap. This did help the panting some, but the dog could not be still as his nerves I guess were affected. This went on through the night and we bathed him a third time and this time used Aloe Vera on his spine to help ease the burn/irritation. By morning he would not eat, drink or even walk on his own.
Our other dog by this time had started to do the shakeing and was obviously having a milder reaction, but a reaction.
We called the vet and took them both in for evaluation. Our Dr., Dr. Murray said that they have had SEVERAL complaints about the same product -- and although they haven't lost a dog, several were very sick.
After paying for TWO office calls ($62) and a shot for the Bishonapoo ($20) and other non related issues, we left for home realizing that I had just spent about $100 and many unsettleing hours simply trying to keep a few fleas off our dogs! I have recently lost my primary job (at 62) and every dollar is carefully spent at this time, but we had to get them help and are glad that we did.
By the next morning, the Bishonapoo was still lathargek, would not move without being forced, would take no food or drink. I decided to give him 12 more hours before returning yet another time to the vet and thankfully, by late afternoon, he came out of it. They are both normal today other than scratching and a little shaking (like when wet), so there is still a little residule effect.
This was very frightening, dangerous and expensive. I would caution all dog owners to be extremely careful of this product.
I would appreciate any comment from Sargents.
Sincerely,
John E. Abbey
