Why It’s Time to Rethink Flea & Worm Treatments for Dogs

Emerging research is revealing their hidden risks, to dogs, gut health, and even the environment. A few days ago, someone sent me this article from The Guardian, and I have to say—I was happy to see it.

At ProDog Raw, we’ve been talking about the overuse of chemical flea and worm treatments for years. Not because we like to cause a stir, but because we see the impact. So, seeing mainstream media start to question routine chemical treatments is a win for informed pet care.

But Fleas, ticks, and worms are a real problem. I know that firsthand. So, is there another way? Let’s talk about it.

When my dog, Rudi, came to live with me at 13 months old, he was a rescue in every sense. He arrived with fleas and had a worm burden that left him lethargic and with digestive issues. There was no way around it, he needed chemical flea and prescribed worm treatment to clear the infestation and give him a fresh start.

That was five years ago.

Since then? Not a single flea, worm, or tick. And he hasn’t had a single dose of chemical flea or worm treatment since.

This isn’t luck—it’s about building health from the inside out. Exploring natural solutions, trusting your instincts about what’s right for your dog, and having the confidence to break away from the norm. Because when you trust your instincts and take a proactive approach, real change happens.

The question is: How many pet owners are still being told that monthly chemical treatments are the only option?

The Guardian article highlights the environmental impact of these treatments, particularly their role in damaging biodiversity and water systems. Researchers are finding that pesticides used in flea treatments are polluting rivers and harming insects and the ripple effect impacting wildlife, including songbirds; raising concerns about their long-term effects on ecosystems [1].

But there’s more to the story. Because it’s not just about the environment.

Every time we give our dogs a chemical flea or worm treatment, we’re not just targeting parasites. We’re exposing their bodies, including their gut microbiome, to powerful pesticides and deworming agents.

And here’s what we know about the gut:

• 80% of the immune system is housed in the gut [2]

• The gut-brain axis links gut health to mental well-being, meaning disruptions can influence anxiety, mood, and behaviour [3]

• Chemicals used in flea and worm treatments have been found to impact gut bacteria, which could lead to wider health issues [4]

So, while these treatments might be necessary in certain cases (like Rudi’s when he first arrived), routinely giving them to healthy dogs “just in case” is a practice that deserves serious scrutiny.

At ProDog Raw, we knew there had to be a better way.

That’s why Alison Frost, our Head Nutritionist & Supplement Formulation, developed Repel—a natural, gut-friendly flea, tick, and worm repellent.

Still skeptical? You’re not alone. Plenty of ProDog customers once thought they had to rely on chemical treatments, until they switched to a natural approach.

Take Millie the Miniature Schnauzer, Chunk the Shar Pei and Rosemary’s pack of Golden Retrievers whose owners were questioning the constant vet reminders to use flea and worm treatments and looking for a natural and effective alternative.

They made the switch to Repel, prioritised gut health, and haven’t looked back. The results speak for themselves. No more chemicals, no more worries.

Read their full stories here and discover what’s possible when you take a natural approach.

And they’re not the only ones. More and more owners are choosing to break the cycle of over-treating for parasites.

Want expert tips on natural flea, tick, and worm prevention? Discover why ditching chemicals is the best choice for your dog, read our blogs: Natural Flea Prevention for Dogs, Ticks on Dogs, and Worms in Dogs.

If you take one thing from this blog, let it be this: You have options.

Chemical flea and worm treatments are not your only line of defence. A strong immune system, a balanced gut, and natural parasite deterrents can do the job, without unnecessary exposure to toxins.

That said, if routine chemical treatments have always been your norm, it’s completely understandable to want guidance before making a change. You might want to discuss your approach with a vet, and if you’re looking for reassurance from a qualified pet medical professional, searching for a holistic vet can be a great step.

Many holistic vets, such as Dr. Vicky Simon, offer consultations via phone or video call, meaning you don’t always need to find one on your doorstep. With the right support, you can make informed choices that protect your dog’s health environment.

At ProDog Raw, we’re committed to driving a more informed, balanced approach to pet care, because true health isn’t just about killing parasites, it’s about creating an environment where they don’t take hold in the first place. And at the heart of that? Nutrition. When a dog’s diet supports overall wellness, it strengthens their natural defences, making them less appealing to parasites in the first place.

If you’re new to dog supplements our Beginner’s Guide to Dog Supplements has you covered. And if you’re after expert advice on nutrition or food behaviour, our ProDog nutritionists and behaviourists are ready to help—reach out today for free, personalised support!