Dog Flea Treatment Options

Fleas are just as troublesome for owners as they are for pets – it can take weeks of hard work to make a dog flea treatment pay off. Getting rid of these pesky biting critters is more complicated than just buying a chemical or collar.

Swift treatment, thorough removal, and persistent protection are all crucial components of a successful flea treatment for dogs – keep these factors in mind as you complete the following 5 steps to effective flea removal:

1. Find a Safe, Natural Treatment

Be aware of impostors. Not all “natural” ingredients are safe to use – permethrin, for example, is a synthetic chemical derived from chrysanthemums often used in spot flea treatments. Sounds harmless, right? Wrong! It’s highly toxic to cats and has been designated “likely to be carcinogenic to humans” by the EPA. Always do your research to see which dog flea treatments are safe.

Consult your vet and start treatment as soon as possible. Then get started on the next steps right away. Always watch for signs of allergies or irritation resulting from any chemical or natural products.

2. Clean, Clean, Clean – Repeat!

Fleas will live and lay their eggs just about anywhere (clothing, carpets) even if your dog is protected. In fact, fleas can live for up to seven months without a meal as long as they stay in their pupae. Wash your bedspreads in warm water and vacuum carpets at least once a week. Pay special attention to pet bedding – it may need to be replaced.

3. Control Outdoor Pests

Be very careful with outdoor flea sprays and powders. Even food-grade amorphous diatomaceous earth will kill many of the beneficial insects that keep lawns, flowers, and gardens looking lush. If you do decide to treat any areas of your lawn, be selective. Only shaded areas need treatment. For a natural solution, ask your garden center about picking up some nematodes to release.

4. Comb Your Dog Daily

This step isn’t necessary if you’re using a year-round preventative. But if you prefer to keep it natural, you can brush your canine each day with a fine-knit flea comb and a bit of warm water. It takes a lot of work, but the flea population can be controlled with diligence.

5. Watch for Signs of Re-Infestation

Re-Infestation can happen for hundreds of reasons, even if your dog is protected with a preventative. Keep an eye out for the telltale itching, scratching, flaking, or complaining – it could be a sign of live fleas, or even something more serious like an allergic reaction to the treatment.

Don’t fear disease-ridden fleas – eliminate them with this routine!

With hard work and close cooperation with your veterinarian, you can adapt this strategy to handle even the toughest pest problems. Your companion deserves the best dog flea treatment out there; you can provide it! Good luck!

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