Dogs may get fleas from already flea-infested animals such as other dogs or cats, or they pick them up from the environment. Wild animals such as raccoons or opossums or your neighbor's cat may leave egg-laying fleas in the environment. When the eggs become adult fleas, they attach themselves to your pet. Flea prevention for dogs is the best remedy for keeping fleas out of your home. However, if your pet already has fleas, there may be hundreds of eggs in your home. You can move swiftly to remove the flea infestation so there are no fleas in your home or on your dog.
Chose the Right Product
The most effective and common treatment for fleas and tick are sprays and oral medications. Some medications are used to treat the symptoms while others are effective at prevention and some can do both. It is important to remember that these products should not be used for dogs under six weeks old.
Spray Treatments
Sprays are another effective product for flea prevention but there can be unwanted side effects with the alcohol-based sprays. This applies even to the people who apply them. Some sprays can be used along with topical medications. Other types of sprays will function over long periods of time to keep eggs from hatching. We recommend that you read the instructions carefully on the package on how to use the product to see if there are possible interactions with other medications. The disadvantage of sprays is that they can leave some areas of your pet vulnerable to fleas and ticks, whereas oral medications provide protection for the entire body. The instructions will give the proper dosage for the weight of the dog.
The Outside Environment
If your property is open to so that wild animals and dogs or cats can enter, you may want to install some kind of barriers, which will prevent animals from passing through your property. If you mow your lawn regularly, keep your bushes trimmed and do not allow litter or mulch to remain on the ground, the fleas will not find a hiding place. In addition, keep all garbage containers tightly closed and if you take your pet outdoors, avoid tall grasses or brush and make sure pet is protected with some form of flea treatment.
In the Home
If your dog does get fleas, you can be sure for every flea you see there are hundreds of eggs you cannot see. These are in cracks, crevices, carpets, in upholstered furniture and bedding. Fortunately, you can get rid of the eggs larvae and pupa, but first, treat your pets. There is an oral medication that will kill most fleas within four hours, works for cats and dogs and can be taken for two weeks. When the dog is flea-free, you can start on your house. Vacuuming along with approved insecticides and insect growth regulator may be enough to keep the eggs and larvae from developing and stop the next generation. Any throw rugs, bedding and other fabric should be washed in hot water.
At first, flea infestations may appear like an insurmountable problem. However, with the right products and prevention tactics, you can get rid of fleas in your garden, house and on your dog.
