How to use our Protect products?
Protect Dog Shampoo: Shake well before each use to mix the essential oils with the other natural liquid ingredients. Wet coat with warm water to ensure penetration through skin. Work shampoo into fur and lather from head to hind quarters, being sure to keep the product away from your dog’s eyes, nose, mouth and ears. Let the lather stand for 2-4 minutes then rinse thoroughly until water is free of suds. Towel dry. Do not use more than every 3 days unless your veterinarian approves.
Protect Home + Dog Spray: Shake well before each use to mix the essential oils with the other natural liquid ingredients. Spray on dog bedding, carpets, car interiors and other areas that may be infested. You may also use on your dog’s coat by rubbing the fur in the opposite direction from the fur growth to expose skin, then spray and rub in. Keep away from your and your dog’s eyes, nose, mouth and ears and do not put excessive amounts of product on skin or fur. Do not use more than every 3 days unless your veterinarian approves.
What is the pH for the Protect Dog Shampoo and Home + Dog Spray?
Both Protect Dog Shampoo and Home + Dog Spray are pH neutral. They are tested regularly, and pH range is 6-7.
Can I use VetSmart Formulas Protect products on my cat?
These products are uniquely formulated for dogs and should NOT be used on cats.
What is the difference between the shampoo and spray?
The shampoo is meant to be worked deep into your pet’s fur, left to stand for 2-4 minutes, and then thoroughly rinsed off of your pet. This will kill any adult insects, eggs, and larvae on contact and help protect your pet from future bites and infestations. When you are battling a flea infestation in your home, we recommend you re-apply the shampoo every three days.
The spray is meant to be sprayed directly into your pet’s fur and then left there. It is also meant for use on your furniture, carpets, and bed - wherever fleas, eggs, and larvae might be hiding. It will kill adult insects and eliminate eggs and larvae while wet and then form a barrier that will repel any insects your pet may encounter outdoors or inside your home.
My pets are indoors only. Why would they need this product?
Just because your pets stay indoors doesn’t mean that bugs do! Fleas, ticks, and other insects can be tracked in on people’s clothing and shoes or sneak in when the door is open for just a moment. And it only takes one pregnant insect to launch an infestation. The best way to protect your pet and your home during flea season is to take preventative action with an anti-pest shampoo and spray.
Can I use this product with other over-the-counter or prescription flea treatments?
Yes, you can, although we recommend you discuss this with your veterinarian to make sure.
Why can I only use these products every three days?
VetSmart Formulas Protect is Veterinarian Strength and formulated to be used no more than every three days. However, your veterinarian may recommend more frequent treatments in certain cases.
I love the smell of both products! Can I use the shampoo and spray all year long?
Yes, absolutely! Our Protect products are designed for year round use. In fact, we encourage you to do so. Flea eggs can lie dormant in your carpet, bedding, and furniture for months, which means a single warm spell (or someone turning up the heat too high in the winter) can trigger them to hatch. The best way to ensure your pet stays protected year round is to use our products year round. Not only will the spray protect your pet and home from insects, our shampoo will condition your pet’s skin and coat and leave their fur shiny and soft. Plus, your home will smell great!
Is cedarwood oil toxic to dogs?
Cedarwood oil is safe for dogs.
My dog has sensitive skin and allergies. Are these products safe for them?
These products are formulated with dogs with sensitive skin and allergies. They are soap-free and do not contain harsh detergents or parabens. We always recommend that you test this product (or any products) for possible allergic reactions with a small amount and observe for 24 hours. If any sensitivities occur, bath your pet with a mild soap and rinse with plenty of water. Consult with your veterinarian as required.
What happens if my dog ingests the product by licking it off its fur?
PROTECT Shampoo and Home + Dog Spray are made of plant-based, non-toxic ingredients and are perfectly safe for your dog.
Does the product work to kill and repel other insects, such as spiders, wasps, or bees?
Yes! Feel free to let your pets roam outside, secure in the knowledge they are protected from any creepy-crawlies they might encounter on their travels.
Will the Dog + Home Spray stain my fabrics in my house?
Typically not. However, this product does contain natural oils so we recommend that you test on inconspicuous fabrics and surfaces before use, just to be sure.
How much product do I need?
For the shampoo, it depends on how many pets you have, how big they are, how long their fur is, and how often you shampoo them. For the spray, it is similar and you also want to consider how many areas and the size of the areas you are treating. Generally speaking, though, one 8-ounce bottle of each product typically lasts 4-6 weeks during flea season, depending on your needs. During the fall, winter, and early spring, your bottle may last longer.
Is this product safe for use with puppies?
We recommend these products for use with dogs 18 months and older.
What is the shelf life of this product?
PROTECT Shampoo and Home + Dog Spray both have a shelf life of five years.
