One of dilemmas of dog owners aside from too much barking of their pets is the nonstop scratching that are usually associated with allergies, skin disorders, fleas and the like. A large percent of dog population in USA alone suffer from these problems. Dog owners usually think instantly that their dogs have allergies but in reality there are about 160 or more skin disorders that your dog might have. Although cats are more prone to fleas, flea infestation in dogs is also one problem a pet owner should also give attention.
One of the most annoying problems that most dog owners share is dog fleas especially during summer season. Fleas are more than just a summer problem to some areas of the country. One reason how your dog acquire fleas is through contact with other dogs, other animals or environment.
Fleas have strong back legs that let them jump from one dog to another or the environment. They don’t have wings for flying but their strong back legs are enough for them to find their next host.
Your dog feel itchy when they are bitten by fleas but there are dogs that are allergic or sensitive will have severe itching that can lead to hair-loss, inflammation or even to secondary skin infections. A dog that is hypersensitive to flea’s saliva will itch all over from the bite of a single flea.
There is a lot of information on the internet that can help you solve this problem. But still your veterinarian will be your best source for flea information and how to eliminate them.
Here are some steps that you can follow to get rid of fleas
1. Contact your vet to treat your pet if your flea problem has already started.
2. Clean the areas where your pet always hangs out. You need to treat not only the pets but the indoor and outdoor environment.
3. Thoroughly vacuum everything from carpets, rugs, furniture, mattresses and etc. After vacuum don’t forget to dispose the bag.
4. Use flea treatments. Ask your vet what is the most effective product to use.
5. Avoid contacts to other dogs or pets that are suffering from flea problems.
6. You can also use flea products such as flea shampoos, powders, sprays, mousses, dips, collars and spot-on products.
There is no over night solution to flea problem. Controlling or getting rid of fleas is an on going battle. It is better to treat your pet early when you see some fleas than solving a flea infestation.