Fleas have been around for a very long time, irritating our pets and invading our homes. They are smart little critters that can survive just about anywhere. They eat sparingly, move quietly and reproduce aggressively. The good news is that there are steps you can take to ensure a flea-free home.
Educate Yourself About Fleas
Take the time to learn the dirty truth about fleas.
- Fleas can live for as long as 12 months.
- During that time, fleas may produce millions of offspring.
- Fleas can jump up to two feet high.
- They are persistent in their environment (a.k.a. hard to get rid of!).
Symptoms of Flea Bites
Flea bites have certain distinct characteristics. The bite may immediately cause a dog to feel extremely itchy. Within 30 minutes of a bite, your dog may develop a red bump. Secondary infections caused by scratching are also common.
How to Treat The Flea Bites
Wash the bites with antiseptic soap, as recommended by your veterinarian, to reduce the risk of infection.
How to Eliminate Fleas in All Stages
The flea life cycle includes adults, eggs, larvae (maggots) and pupae (the cocoon stage). Typical insecticides do not eliminate the pupae. Use an insect growth regulator to break the flea life cycle.
Get Rid of Stray Fleas
If your dog picks up a “hitchhiker” flea while outdoors, use an adulticide medication that kills adult fleas. Talk to your veterinarian about the best product for your pet.
Regularly Check Your Dog for Fleas
Don’t wait until you see your dog scratching. Frequent brushing will help spread natural protective oils over your pet’s coat, reduce shedding, and give you an opportunity to look for fleas.
Avoid Problem Areas
Keep your pet away from areas known to have flea problems. Not sure if the local park is safe? Do your homework to ensure the local dog park has a good flea control program.
Groom The Yard
Don’t just check your dog for fleas — treat his environment as well. Remove underbrush from trees, and rake leaves where fleas and ticks may lurk. When spraying the yard for fleas, concentrate on the areas where your pet spends most of his time. Eggs and larvae will likely be shed in the spots where he lies down.
Exterminate The Home
In-home extermination should focus on upholstered furniture, rugs, and carpeting. Vacuum all floors prior to home treatment and check with your professional exterminator to see when it is best to vacuum following treatment. If your pet sleeps in your bed, wash sheets and pillowcases in hot water and regular laundry detergent. Vacuum the mattress and consider buying new pillows.
Use Year-round Preventive Care
Waiting too long to use preventative treatments before flea and tick season comes around could be dangerous for your dog. Protect your dog year-round to avoid an infestation. Ask your veterinarian about which product is best for your dog and be sure to read the label carefully before administering the medication.
RE: Dogster / Dog health care
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