Fleas: Causes and Prevention for Dogs

Fleas can be a nasty addition to your home, but they are very common in dogs and cats in all types of environments. As much as you try to prevent them, occasionally fleas will make their way onto the backs of your pets and into your house, and there is nothing worse than a flea infestation! Luckily, your reliable veterinary clinic Kirrawee Vet Hospital in New South Wales is here to help you and your fur baby with the common signs your pet may have fleas, the causes, prevention tactics and treatments. If you’re amidst a flea-induced panic, please do not hesitate to call us and we’ll be happy to help you find the best flea treatment for dogs.

Signs Your Dog May Have Fleas

Dog flea symptoms will show up the same way as fleas on cats will:

• Excessive scratching, biting or licking
• Loss of hair: Primarily over the lower back, tail and rear leg region
• Flea bites
• Scabs
• Abnormal red patches of skin
• Small bumps around body or neck area
• Yeast and bacterial infections
• Skin Infections
• Ear infections
• Flea dirt (flea blood and dropping that appear as small black flakes in the fur)

If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, it means it is time to do a detailed check. Gently turn your dog onto their back to check all the areas that fleas like to hide: their armpits, ears, tail, groin, tummy, back of neck and head. Fleas tend to find the warmest, furriest spots to nest (don’t we all?).

The Cause of Fleas

Dogs often get fleas through contact with other flea-infested pets or just by being in an environment where fleas like to live. Fleas are able to jump from host to host, so if you’re thinking ‘my dog has fleas and sleeps in my bed,’ then it may be time to flea bomb the whole house!

Preventative Measures

To prevent fleas on your pet:

• Limit the amount of time your pet spends outdoors (let them be free, but make sure they have a comfortable warm place inside, don’t sleep outdoors and don’t roam anywhere you’re not accustomed to)
• Limit contact with wild and stray animals (like possums or rats)
• Bathe and brush pets regularly
• Check for fleas regularly
• Always have a dog tick and flea treatment on hand and keep it up to date

It is very important to perform due diligence when it comes to fleas, as once they enter your home, they can spread easily and can quickly become a problem for the whole household.

What to do if Your Dog Has Fleas

If you notice fleas on your pet, you want to act immediately. When looking for what kills fleas on dogs instantly, ask your local vet clinic for a proven dog tick and flea treatment or brew up a tried and tested dog tick treatment home remedy. It is also important to immediately vacuum your whole house with a heavy-duty vacuum, including all upholstery, carpet and floors.

Wash your bedding, your dog’s bedding and, if need be, explore safe ways to ‘flea bomb’ your home.

Contact Your Local Vet Clinic 

If your dog keeps getting fleas even after treatment, speak to Kirrawee Vet Hospital for the best flea treatment for dogs.