Dogs, indeed, are one of the secrets of human happiness. When they are healthy and happy, we can sit beside them for hours and relax. But when they are bothered by parasites such as fleas, it becomes frustrating as fleas are the most annoying pests to deal with. Flea biting can cause itching and irritation and leads to flea-borne diseases, if not addressed timely. So, it is crucial to understand everything about fleas and take action in time to prevent the infestation. In this blog, we will understand how to protect our canine companions from fleas and make them free from fleas problems.
Let’s begin!
Symptoms of Flea Infestation in Dogs
Fleas can be sneaky, but they leave signs of their presence on your dog. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Irritation and intense itching
- Skin sores
- Hair loss
- Flea dirt
- Pale gums
- Scratching, rubbing, and licking
- Dark specks of flea feces
Flea Diseases in Dogs
Fleas are not just uncomfortable; they can also transmit diseases and cause serious health problems. Here are some health problems fleas can cause:
- Tapeworm Infestations: Fleas can carry tapeworm eggs. While grooming, if your dog swallows a flea, those eggs can develop into tapeworms inside their intestines. Tapeworms can cause weight loss and discomfort, especially in puppies and older dogs.
- Canine Bartonellosis: Fleas can transmit bacteria called Bartonella, leading to Bartonellosis, a disease with symptoms like fever, vomiting, and swollen lymph nodes. It can also cause more severe issues, such as liver and spleen inflammation.
- Anemia: Fleas feed on your dog’s blood, and a heavy infestation can lead to anemia, especially in small dogs and puppies.
- Contact Dermatitis: Flea bites can cause allergic reactions and itchy red skin. Your dog may scratch or chew the affected areas, which leads to skin infections.
Ways to Treat Flea Infestation in Dogs
When dealing with a flea infestation, taking effective action is essential to protect your dog from discomfort and health issues. Here are some of the most effective treatments methods you can use:
- Spot-On treatments: These liquid treatments are applied directly to your dog’s skin, usually between shoulder blades. They kill fleas quickly and help prevent future infestations. Advantage Multi (Advocate) is a broad spectrum treatment for parasites such as fleas, intestinal worms, chewing lice, ear mites, demodicosis, and sarcoptic mange in dogs.
- Oral Treatments: Oral treatments are available as tablets or chewables and work from within to kill fleas when they bite your dogs. They provide fast relief, often within hours. Simparica Trio is best all-in-one treatment in dogs.
- Flea Sprays: Flea sprays can be applied directly to your dog’s coat. They kill adult fleas and larvae on contact. Aristopet Flea & Tick Spray is one of the best products for flea and tick preventive treatment for dogs.
- Flea Shampoos: Bathing your dog with a flea shampoo can help remove fleas from their coat and soothe irritated skin. Karbawash Shampoo is a natural solution for maintaining your pet’s coat and aids in repelling fleas.
- Vacuuming: Regularly vacuuming your home, particularly in areas where your dog spends time, can help remove fleas and their eggs from their environment. Dispose of vacuum bags or empty the canister outside to prevent re-infestation.
- Pest Control: Pest control through an exterminator is one of the best ways to remove these annoying fleas. They will completely kill and eliminate the pests from your home and yards.
The Bottom line:
Fleas can be a persistent problem, but with the prevention methods and appropriate treatments, you can protect your dog from these parasites. Understanding the flea life cycle, identifying the symptoms, and using proper treatments can help keep your dog healthy, happy, and flea-free.