How to Eliminate Fleas on Dogs

Fleas on dogs are about as common as mosquitoes at a pond. In fact, it’s what pet owners dread the most during the warm summer months. No one wants to admit, “My dog has fleas.” If you are ready to learn more about getting rid of fleas on dogs, fleas on dogs symptoms, how to get a tick off a dog’s ear, removing ticks on dogs, and the safest way to deal with these problems, you will want to read this article!

Dogs pick up fleas from other animals, or they come into contact with fleas from their environment. It’s a common mistake to think that fleas can fly. They cannot. The flea has very strong back legs, which allow it to jump a considerable distance, thereby having the ability to get from one host to the next quite rapidly.

Fleas on Dogs are Itchy

If a dog is scratching more than normal, it is likely the result of fleas. There are other causes including scabies, mites, and Demodex; however, fleas can be seen on the surface of the skin. Just shine a light on them and watch them scurry. They are very tiny about the size of a pinhead. Flea dirt, which is flea feces, is also usually visible.

There are many different treatments for fleas on the market. Treatments like Advantage or Frontline are commonly recommended by vets. There are other less toxic options including tea tree, neem oil, or diatomaceous earth. Vacuum often to reduce flea contamination in your home. To reduce fleas in your yard keep your grass short, remove leaf piles, or you can use a product like Flea Away which you spray your yard with using a garden hose. Finally, feeding a dog a healthy diet can do a lot to reduce the chances of a dog getting fleas.

Ticks on dogs are another common problem during the warmer months. Most commercial products that take care of fleas also deal with ticks. If your dog gets a tick, the steps to get a tick off a dog are relatively easy. The most important thing is to check your dog each time you take the dog outside.

Ticks and fleas on dogs are common events. Being proactive can be very helpful. Start by running your fingers through your dog’s fur from top to bottom. If you fee a bump or swollen area look to see if a tick has burrowed there.

If you find a tick, you can remove the tick using a pair of tweezers. Grab the tick as close to the dog’s body as possible. Pull straight out in a steady motion to ensure the entire tick comes out. You can also buy a tick remover, which is handy to have around and costs only a couple of dollars. They are very easy to use. Drop the tick into some isopropyl alcohol. This will kill it quickly. If the dog shows any unusual symptoms, it should be seen by a veterinarian so that it can be checked for tick-borne illnesses. The vet will carry out a diagnostics using a vet stethoscope.

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