The family took a ride to the suburbs to enjoy some fresh air with the dog. We stopped to pick up some food for a picnic. The child and parent sat in the car with the dog. Suddenly, the child started screaming and banging on the windows, They drove the car around the block thinking there was something in the area triggering the child.
The child still would not calm down and was becoming extremely agitated and distraught. They drove to the nearby hospital considering whether to bring him inside. One parent decided to walk the dog for a few minutes.
As soon as the dog was removed from the car, the child abruptly reversed their behavior. Now, the child was sweet and innocent and foggy about what had just happened.
The parents thought back to what transpired and realized that the dog had received (oral) flea treatment the day before. Having the dog in the warm car while getting the food created a scenario that triggered the (usually calm) child. After a few minutes, the car was aired out and the dog was again placed in the car with the windows down without any additional issues.
ResearchMama Insight: Although flea treatments are considered safe for humans, sensitive people can be triggered by the treatment. Keep in mind, flea treatments, whether oil drops or oral, are pesticides that kill fleas and ticks. Sensitive people can be triggered by any exposure to chemicals, including and especially pesticides. If the pet must be treated, try either isolating the child from the pet for 1 week or ensure that they interact in a well-ventilated space (and wash their hands afterwards)*.
*Always consult a licensed medical professional before trying new approaches especially with sensitive people.
