This article caught my eye today, apparently there is some question regarding the safety of the "spot on" type of flea / tick remedies used for dogs and cats.

Pet deaths prompt warnings on flea meds

After reading the full article, it seems the main issue is with pet owners using improper dosages for their pets - using medications labeled for larger dogs on small breeds or even in some cases, using medications intended for dogs on cats.

I think this is yet another thing that is unfortunately necessary due to people having even less common sense than you might expect.

While you may be right about improper dosages causing problems, we stopped using Frontline/Advantage types of treatments based on all the bad press.
Granted, our dog does not really get into tick infested areas because she gets most of her exercise in the Limmat. Just got back from a swim a minute ago and it was 20º out today. If ticks were a problem for us, I would probably treat. But I wish there was something less toxic out there.

fduvall

I will try to handle fleas and ticks without them this year.. anyone can suggest any natural treatment sold in CH website or shops?

I haven't tried any of this myself but it may be worth a shot.

Natural Flea Remedies

I was thinking that some of the herbs they recommend planting in gardens to help with pests would probably work as well, planting things like lavender and rosemary are supposed to help keep pests away from your house.

So, I wasn't surprised to see this:
The article does go on (it is quite long) with other suggestions for the home as well as your pet. Meanwhile, I bet it wouldn't be too hard to find some shampoos with lavender and eucalyptus - you'll want to test them on your dog and / or ask a vet beforehand in case of allergic reactions of course.

How about neem oil? Is that easily available here? I have a neem shampoo from Ark's naturals which I brought from back home. Haven't had to use it yet, but now with the warmer weather, it may well soon be the time to start.

I usually use Frontline for my dogs which is always prescribed by the vet but the last batch (1st in Switzerland), I received a different type, Prac-tic.

I used Frontline in GA US, and never had an issue. However, I did talk to my vet and the real issue is improper dosing, treatment and, some animals just get sick from the meds, as they soak into the bloodstream...
But they do work... sometimes...

I found this on the Web .

* 2 tablespoons vegetable or nut oil (almond oil contains sulfur, a repellent in its own right)
* 10 to 25 drops Rose Geranium, or palmerosa essential oil

Combine the ingredients in a glass jar; shake to blend. Makes: 2 tablespoons
Shelf Life: 6 months

Place ONLY a few drops on the dogs collar, and viola... Ticks and fleas should be no more.....

You can also mix the essential oil and water in a spray bottle and spray bedding.....

Something else to try... works for animals and people....

"Skin So Soft" from Avon... Yeah.. I know.. No Avon here... Works great for mosquitos as well. Just rub it on.....

"Listerene" or other mouthwash... Put in a spray bottle with water and spray the pooch down... Not only will it repel critters, your best friend will smell fresh and minty ...

I use the scalibor collar here, easily available from most vets to very good results. No need for application, just put the collar on the little fella and wait for a week before coming into effect and voila. Had zero problem with ticks or fleas last year despite my dog's obsession with long grass. *touch wood*