If your dog has an allergic reaction to the bite, the red area may be larger. If your dog has dark fur, run a flea comb once through its fur to check for signs of fleas. Then, tap the comb on a white paper towel to see if any flea dirt or eggs fall off.
If you find any of these symptoms present on your dog, call your vet. In addition to being a sign of fleas, these symptoms could be signs of ticks, mange, and other canine skin conditions.
The severity of the case also depends on your dog, so don’t panic. The vet will be able to tell you how bad it is and prescribe treatment accordingly.
Too much topical flea treatment can be irritating and potentially dangerous for your dog. Be careful about using the right amount for your dog’s size and age. Use your flea comb to brush out your dog after they dry to help remove any residual flea eggs. Applying the flea shampoo correctly should leave very little residue on your dog’s fur, but still be sure to rinse well afterwards.
Topical treatments such as Advantage and flea collars can both help manage a flea infestation. Flea collars only target adult fleas. You’ll still need to treat your dog with a medication that targets the eggs and fleas in developmental stages, in case any were left over after the bath.
Always carefully follow your vet’s instructions for administering the medication. Pay special attention to things like dosage, what time of day it should be administered, how many times a day it should be administered, and potential side-effects.
Flea-proofing your environment right after an infestation will get rid of any fleas or eggs that happened to fall off and escape.
The right solution for your home will depend on your particular environment. If your dog has suffered from repeated flea infestations, opting for something like a flea bomb can help you get rid of a lot of pests quickly. Flea traps work well as a safety measure in homes where infestations are already controlled.
The right solution for your home will depend on your particular environment. If your dog has suffered from repeated flea infestations, opting for something like a flea bomb can help you get rid of a lot of pests quickly. Flea traps work well as a safety measure in homes where infestations are already controlled.
Isolation should not seem like a punishment. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of food and fresh water, as well as comfort items like blankets, beds, and toys. Spend ample time with them every day. The point is to keep the fleas from spreading, not to ignore them or make them feel bad. Always wash your hands and change your clothes after you have interacted with a flea infested pet before you allow any other animals to come in contact with you.
