Dog Flea and Tick Remedies
In order to keep your dog happy and healthy, it is important to keep fleas and ticks off their skin. In the case of an infestation, it is important to use an effective remedy. By using the correct repellent and shampoo, you can help prevent disease and keep your pet happy and comfortable.
What are some ways to prevent flea infestation?If you find a flea on your dog with a flea comb, or if you see flea dirt, it is essential that you immediately vacuum your home thoroughly and wash your dog's bed in hot water. Throw out the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately. Otherwise, the fleas will continue their life cycle and spread through your home. Vacuuming is your first line of defense against fleas in your home, as it allows you to physically remove the fleas, larva, and eggs from your carpets and areas where your dog sleeps.
Consider a topical flea powder or spray for carpeting and bedding to repel or kill any live pests and eggs that may have been missed and to prevent re-infestation. Cleaning, spraying, and treating your dog may need to be repeated several times before all fleas are gone, as each treatment will catch pests at various parts of their life cycle.
How can a dog with fleas be treated?A dog with a single flea can quickly become a very big problem without immediate flea control. Treatments such as Frontline can help control the insects and keep the population from growing. If you notice that your current treatment irritates your dog's skin, you may need to take your animal to the veterinarian. There are several steps you can take to treat your dog.
- Shampoo your dog with a product that will kill live fleas and reduce any infestation that your dog is experiencing. Repeat this every few days, focusing on areas where you notice flea dirt on your pet.
- Apply a flea treatment to your dog, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Thoroughly clean all areas where your pet rests, including their bedding.
Whether you opt for a natural flea remedy like borax or a topical flea repellent like Frontline, keeping fleas and ticks out of your home often depends on prevention. Keeping fleas from hatching on your dog and going through their natural development will also prevent a full-blown flea infestation in your home. Here are some tips to keep fleas out of your home.
- Keep your dog's bed clean; wash and dry it regularly.
- Use a carpet sweeper on your entire home at least weekly to ensure that all insects, larva, and flea eggs are removed from carpeting and furniture.
- Comb your dog with a flea comb regularly to check for live adult fleas.