The Importance Of Flea Prevention For Dogs

By Author: Pellegrino Dan
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If you are a dog owner, you should be taking preventative measures to protect your pooch from fleas. Flea prevention for dogs is essential, particularly for those living in warm, humid climates.

If you are a dog owner, you should be taking preventative measures to protect your pooch from fleas. Flea prevention for dogs is essential, particularly for those living in warm, humid climates. The blood-sucking pests can multiply by the thousands within a few days, and a flea's life cycle is three to four weeks. Because fleas can survive for long periods of time inside a home, infestations can occur year round, and even pets that stay indoors are at risk.

The Dangers of Flea Bites

Fleas can cause discomfort and illness in dogs and people. The parasites can also transmit serious diseases. Flea allergy dermatitis is one such disease. FAD is a severe allergic reaction that can cause inflammation and itching of the bitten dog's skin. It can lead to scratching or chewing, which damages the skin further. Fungal or bacterial infections may develop as well. Fleas can also transmit infections and tapeworms to other animals ...
... or humans.

Signs of Flea Activity

The most common sign that your dog may have fleas is excessive or continuous scratching or grooming. If you observe your furry friend biting, chewing or scratching its skin, run a flea comb through the dog's coat. Some fleas on the skin or in the fur will be caught in the comb. You can also check the dog's skin for flea dirt, which is digested blood that appears as tiny, dark, tubular specs. Flea dirt may also be found on areas where the dog lies down.

How to Prevent Infestations

There is a wide range of flea prevention products available, but some are more effective than others. Shampoos, dips, and sprays are ideal for eliminating fleas, but they don't prevent future invasions. The best way to safeguard your pup is to administer a preventative pest control medication regularly. Products that target every stage of the flea's life cycle are best. Use the safest oral or topical treatments to further protect your pet.

A Healthy Diet Fosters Healthy Skin

Flea prevention for dogs involves more than just shampooing, snapping on a flea collar and administering medications. Maintaining your dog's skin health is an important step in flea control. Choose whole, fresh foods to support proper digestion and a healthy coat, and avoid meats stuffed with animal byproducts. Keep your pet's living area free from hazardous sources that may encourage flea activity as well.

Parasite Prevention Around the Home

In addition to protecting your dog from flea invasions, you should safeguard your living area. Treat the entire home and yard in order to remove fleas from their hiding places. If your house has been invaded, wash and dry all bedding with the hottest machine settings, and vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly. Run the vacuum along cracks and openings where fleas and larvae may hide.

Treating Other Animals in the House

Once your canine is attacked by fleas, other animals in the house will be at risk. Treat each pet accordingly with flea control products. Never use a medication or application on an animal it's not intended for. Continue treatments until there are no longer any threats. It may be a good idea to dispense protective flea medications monthly for every animal in the home.

The discomfort, illnesses and diseases associated with these bothersome parasites are often avoidable. Year-round flea prevention for dogs is the most effective way to ensure your cherished four-legged pal remains safe and healthy. You can protect your home, family and pets from the potential dangers of flea infestations by initiating a prevention plan and sticking with it.
Resource: http://www.vectrapet.com/