Fleas are one of the most common pests that can affect our furry friends, causing discomfort and irritation. Not only are they a nuisance to dogs, but they can also infest your home if not addressed promptly. If you've discovered that your dog has fleas, it's essential to take swift action to alleviate their discomfort and prevent the infestation from spreading. In this blog post, we'll discuss what to do if your dog gets fleas and offer practical steps to tackle the problem effectively.
Confirm the Presence of Fleas
The first step is to confirm whether your dog indeed has fleas. Look for signs such as excessive scratching, biting, or licking, as well as tiny black or brown specks (flea dirt) in their fur. You may also notice red, irritated skin or small, red bumps on your dog's body. Additionally, inspect your dog's bedding and favorite resting spots for signs of flea activity.
Treat Your Dog with Flea Control Products
Once you've confirmed the presence of fleas, it's crucial to treat your dog promptly to provide relief from itching and eliminate the fleas. There are various flea control products available, including topical treatments, oral medications, shampoos, and collars.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your dog based on their age, size, and overall health. Once your dog has been treated for fleas, it’s imperative to make sure they don’t come back. Use a shampoo that works as a flea deterrent, like our Protect Dog Shampoo, regularly.
Thoroughly Clean Your Home
Fleas can quickly infest your home, hiding in carpets, furniture, and bedding. To prevent the infestation from spreading, per the CDC, it's essential to thoroughly clean your home and eliminate any fleas and their eggs. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently, paying particular attention to areas where your dog spends time. Wash your dog's bedding and any other fabric items in hot water to kill fleas and larvae.
Use Environmental Flea Control Products:
In addition to treating your dog, consider using environmental flea control products to target fleas in your home and yard. Flea sprays, foggers, and powders can help eliminate fleas and prevent reinfestation. Be sure to follow the product instructions carefully and keep your dog away from treated areas until it's safe for them to return. If you are concerned about the safety of some of those products around your furry friends, consider using an in-home flea repellent that is safe for use around animals, like our all-natural Protect Home and Dog Spray.
Continue Preventative Measures:
Once you've treated your dog and cleaned your home, it's essential to continue with preventative measures to protect against future flea infestations. Use year-round flea prevention products on your dog and in your home to keep fleas at bay and regularly groom your dog to check for signs of fleas or flea dirt.
Monitor for Signs of Flea-Related Issues:
After treating your dog for fleas, monitor them closely for any signs of flea-related issues, such as persistent itching, skin irritation, or hair loss. If you notice any concerning symptoms or if the flea infestation persists despite treatment, consult with your veterinarian for further guidance and treatment options.
Seek Professional Help if Necessary:
In severe cases of flea infestation or if you're unsure how to effectively manage the problem, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Your veterinarian can provide expert advice and assistance in developing a comprehensive flea control plan tailored to your dog's specific needs.
In conclusion, discovering that your dog has fleas can be a frustrating experience, but with prompt action and proper treatment, you can effectively address the issue and provide relief for your furry friend. By treating your dog with flea control products, thoroughly cleaning your home, and continuing with preventative measures, you can help keep your dog flea-free and comfortable for years to come.
