Fleas on dogs

Overview

Do you notice small black specks left behind in your dog's brush when you groom him? This is a sign that your pet - and probably your home - are hosts to fleas. Fleas can cause big problems for canines, including skin disease and anemia. Some animals are highly allergic to flea saliva and may scratch themselves continuously and develop hot spots or other painful conditions. These dark, flattened insects can even pass on tapeworm eggs to dogs who eat them.

Symptoms

• Excessive scratching (both you and your dog)
• Excessive chewing, especially around the base of the tail
• Hairloss, especially around the base of the tail
• Pale mucous membranes
• Increased agitation
• Hot spots (large red, raw areas of skin) 

Prevention

It is much easier to prevent flea infestations than it is to eliminate them.  There are multiple products available for monthly prevention.  Most products are topical, meaning they are put on the skin.  For best results, don't bathe your pet for 24-48 hours after the application of flea control to allow it to be fully absorbed. 

Treatment

You'll first want to control the adult fleas that live on your pet. The most popular flea control products today are the small squeeze-on tubes that contain a liquid that is applied to the back of the dog's neck and, in some cases, above the tail. Most of these products kill both adult fleas and flea eggs and larvae. These topical products are widely available at all types of retail stores and veterinary clinics.  Flea collars are basically useless and shouldn't be used if you are dealing with flea infestation. If you chose to use a flea collar, make sure you've purchased the correct size, and frequently check your dog's neck for irritation or infection. Remember that they contain insecticides, so always use them according to manufacturer's instructions and keep them away from children.

There are many products available, but make sure the one you choose is approved for your dog's weight, breed ,and age. Some products, for example, are not recommended for puppies under 4 months of age.  Always read everything on the label and never use products that are formulated for cats on your dogs (and vice versa).

Complete control of these pests involves getting rid of the eggs and larvae that live in your rugs, upholstery and your pet's bedding. Vacuum thoroughly, especially where your pet sleeps and eats. Remember to throw out the vacuum bag afterward. If your dog or home is severely infested, you may need to apply an area spray or powder directly to rugs, chairs and other areas frequented by him. Foggers are an option, too, but some brands do not kill flea eggs. This means you must re-fog in two weeks, when these eggs have hatched. During each application, you must evacuate all human and animal occupants for about four hours.

Effective and safe flea control products are available at your favorite discount, grocery and pet stores and at many other outlets. Additionally, your vet will be able to provide you with instruction and products that can only be sold through a veterinarian. Be careful, the over-the-counter products and the vet-dispensed products are not necessarily required to meet the same safety and efficacy standards. And remember, no matter what your plan of action is, treat all the animals in the house, including indoor only cats, not just the ones who have obvious infestations.