Bolfo for dogs

Bolfo is an effective medication used for dogs to protect against external parasites. Available in several dosage forms, it is manufactured by the renowned German company Bayer. This antiparasitic medication is popular among pet owners and veterinarians, but it is recommended to consult a veterinarian before use.

Release form

Bolfo is sold in Russian pharmacies in two dosage forms:

• collars;
• aerosol.

A German company also produces a product against external parasites in the form of a powder for external treatment and shampoo, but they are not imported into Russia, so they are impossible to find in pharmacies.

The Bolfo collar for dogs is a brown polymer band. It can have two or three fasteners that allow it to be secured in a specific position. The band is impregnated with propoxur, a substance that has a negative effect on ticks, fleas, and other arthropods.

There are two types of collars available for sale:

• For small dogs and cats 38 cm long;
• For average and large dogs up to 70 cm long.

Each polymer strip is individually packaged in a polyethylene bag, which preserves the active ingredient's properties for a long time. Each collar for one pet is also packaged in a cardboard box and comes with instructions for use.

The spray is packaged in 250 ml bottles. It is a clear liquid, yellow or light brown in color. In addition to the active ingredient (propoxur), the aerosol contains auxiliary components, including a fragrance. Despite the fragrance, the spray has a distinctive odor, which is subtle.

There are no special storage conditions for any medication, regardless of dosage form. The air temperature should be above freezing, but not exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Most importantly, store the medication away from sunlight, open flames, and heating elements.

What is the price

The price of Bolfo in online pharmacies is approximately as follows:

• collar for small breeds – from 500 rubles;
• collar for large pets – from 580 rubles;
• spray, 250 ml – from 450 rubles.

Properties and action

Propoxur, the active ingredient in this medication, has insecticidal acaricidal properties, meaning it can kill ticks and fleas that infest dogs. The medication is intended for external use. The active ingredient accumulates in the coat and sebaceous glands, so the medication's effect lasts for a long time.

The drug's mechanism of action is based on the fact that its components, specifically propoxur, cause severe metabolic disturbances in parasites. This leads to the development of pathological changes that cause paralysis and death in the arthropods.

Please note! Bolfo's active ingredient is highly toxic. Although the medication is considered safe for dogs (if used according to instructions), it can be fatal to bees and fish.

When and how to apply?

According to the instructions, both the Bolfo spray and collar are used on dogs to protect against ticks, fleas, and other parasitic insects. The medication is also effective against lice and biting lice. It can be used to prevent infestation and kill parasites that have already "settled" on the animal. The specific use of the antiparasitic medication depends on its dosage form.

Spray

If an aerosol is chosen to protect your pet from external parasites, it should be sprayed all over the pet's body. First, shake the bottle well to distribute the ingredients evenly. Then, apply the spray against the grain. If your pet has long hair, be sure to lift it with your hand. It's important that the medication reaches the skin, otherwise the product will be very ineffective. The coat should be moistened.

It is recommended to carry out the treatment outdoors. If this is not possible and the treatment must be carried out indoors, follow a few simple rules:

1. Open windows or vents to ensure air exchange in the room.
2. Remove the bird cages from the room for a while.
3. Aquariums should be covered to prevent spray from entering the water.
4. After treatment, the premises must be thoroughly checked.

When spraying, it is advisable to use personal protective equipment, in particular a “petal”, which will prevent the inhalation of toxic substances.

Dogs are treated with Bolfo aerosol if they are infested with ticks or other ectoparasites. To prevent arthropod infestations, the product is used regularly. The frequency of treatments depends on the degree of risk. The medication should not be used more than once a week.

Collars

Unlike sprays, collars are more convenient to use. They are suitable even for animals that dislike aerosol treatments or for restless pets. A single Bolfo collar provides protection against ticks for up to 2.5 months. It can provide protection against fleas for up to 4 months.

The application is simple:

1. Place the polymer tape around your neck, pulling it through the retainer.
2. Don't tighten the collar too tightly. Two fingers should fit easily between the neck and the strap.
3. Trim off any excess tape.

If your dog's coat is very dirty, you should first bathe it with shampoo. If there are external parasites, a medicated flea shampoo is recommended. The collar should be removed during bathing, and then reinserted when the coat is dry.

Bolfo collars are recommended for tick and flea prevention. They take time to work, so they should be put on the day before walking your dog in areas with a risk of infestation (parks, squares, and forests). If used while ticks are present, they will die within 1-2 days. No additional measures are necessary.

Please note! If Bolfo is used to kill ectoparasites, it is essential to treat the dog's bedding and living area. You can use an aerosol or other product for this purpose.

Limitations and side effects

According to the instructions, Bolfo (both collars and spray) should not be used on exhausted or recovering dogs whose bodies are severely weakened by other factors. It is also not recommended for use:

• for puppies up to 3 months of age;
• in case of intolerance to active or additional components;
• for infectious diseases of various types.

During pregnancy and lactation, the use of antiparasitic medications is permitted, but only after consultation with a doctor. The doctor must assess all the risks to the animal and its offspring.

If used according to the instructions, dogs tolerate the medication well. Minor skin irritation and itching may occasionally occur, but these resolve on their own. Overdose may cause the following symptoms:

• vomit;
• indigestion;
• dilation of pupils;
• increased salivation.

If the dose is exceeded, the polymer tape should be removed and the aerosol rinsed off. Further medications are used to relieve symptoms, depending on the animal's response to the medication.

If the medication or polymer tape particles are ingested, symptoms of chemical poisoning will occur. Among the medications aimed at relieving symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea), in such cases, a veterinarian will definitely prescribe enterosorbents.

Owner reviews

Marina, the owner of a bull terrier:

"Our dog has hypersensitivity and is severely allergic to many medications. We started using Bolfo spray for flea and tick protection after a doctor's recommendation. We used it throughout the summer. There were no side effects, nor was there any contact with the pesky parasites. It's a good and safe product for our dog, so we'll be buying it again next year."

Daria, the Labrador's owner:

"Not all medications are suitable for our dog. Allergies are common. We were able to find some neck drops to control fleas and ticks, but they're difficult to use because they need to be reapplied every 3-4 weeks. On the advice of a breeder friend, we bought a Bolfo collar. There were no reactions, but it's effective against parasites. The effect lasted for three months, then we had to replace it with a new one."

Veterinarian Reviews

Zhanna, a veterinarian with 13 years of experience:

"An excellent antiparasitic product. Of course, there have been cases where ticks have attached themselves to animals, but no product offers a 100% guarantee. I often recommend using it for animals with increased sensitivity. Negative reactions are rare. The main thing is to follow the dosage."

Anton, a veterinarian with 9 years of experience:

"Ectoparasite prevention means preventing the development of dangerous diseases. Bolfo sprays or collars are good options for this purpose. They're safe and easy to use. Yes, they're more expensive than domestic medications, but they're also much more effective. Just decide if it's worth saving on your pet's health."

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