[pct-l] Flea and Tick Treatment

["ROBERT E RIESS" <CDRRIESS@prodigy.net>]

I bought a product for my dogs called Scratchex.  It is a liquid which is
applied in very small amounts to the dog's back.  It comes in three 2 ml
tubes.  Each tube is supposed to kill fleas and ticks for 30 days.  This
product is very similar to the famous Advantage treatment which you get from
your veterinarian.  Advantage costs 37 bucks, Scratchex less than 4 dollars.
Hartz sells the same formulation.

The label on the package says, "Caution: Humans-causes eye irritation.
Avoid contact with eyes or clothing.  Wash thoroughly with soap and water
after handling."  And of course there is the statement, "It is a violation
of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its
labeling."

With those cautions read and understood, I still wonder if this or a similar
product would be effective against fleas and ticks for backpackers if it
could be applied in a legal and safe manner.  The active ingredient is
Permethrin 45%.  I read the Pesticide Information Profile, which indicates
it is a very safe substance, even when injested by dogs and mice in
incedibly high doses.

Are there any comments from members of the list regarding Permethrin?  Are
there any Permethrin products approved for human use?


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