Where do fleas come from on dogs?
Many owners of small dogs who do not even go outside mistakenly believe that flea problems will not affect them. But that's not true. Fleas can appear in animals after:
- walks in the forest, visiting places where dogs gather;
- contact with other animals - even simple sniffing is enough for the pet to become infected;
- contact with humans - fleas often move on people’s clothes or shoes;
- a visit to an infected house or institution, for example, after visiting a veterinary clinic, where high-quality cleaning was not carried out.
Fleas especially love pregnant bitches and pets during the period of “estrus”: because of this, the level of cortisol and corticosteroids in the blood increases, which attracts parasites.
How dangerous are fleas for a puppy?
Flea bites cause pain to the puppy, and if severely infested, they can lead to apathy, refusal to eat, and a nervous breakdown. Fleas on a puppy can cause serious health problems:
- the immune system has not yet been formed, so infections carried by fleas are much more dangerous for small pets;
- flea saliva contains a large amount of biologically active substances that cause allergic reactions;
- if the dog is heavily infested and the size of the dog is small, flea feeding can lead to significant blood loss and cause anemia;
- fleas can become carriers of helminths, which deplete the animal’s body.
Puppies
Therefore, you should pay close attention to the fact that your pet is itching and take action in time. Flea remedies for your puppy should be chosen taking into account the conditions in which he lives and other factors.
How to determine if a dog has fleas
How does a pet become infected?
The main problem is that fleas can settle on a dog even after a short walk outside or meeting another animal. Once the parasite settles on your pet, it will begin to lay eggs and multiply quickly. This cannot be allowed, as contamination can cause an infection.
Symptoms of infection
Determining the presence of parasites is simple - watch your dog.
Symptoms of infection:
- the animal is constantly itching;
- appetite and weight decrease sharply;
- the appearance of aggression uncharacteristic for a pet.
It is worth examining the dog - the presence of whitish grains indicates parasite eggs, black grains indicate its excrement.
Do dog fleas bite people?
Fleas that live on dogs can bite people when they are very hungry. Moreover, even if the pet is not at home, they can live both in the “house” and on the litter.
Red spots appear at the bite sites, and the skin begins to itch.
Are cats and dogs the same?
Often pets suffer from the same type of fleas, but Ctenocephalides canis most often lives on dogs, and Ctenocephalides felis on cats.
Causes of flea infestation
It is impossible to completely and forever protect a dog from parasites, because there are incredibly many possibilities for infection with them. Whether on the street or in the apartment, there are no safe places. Fleas can be found anywhere, even in the most unexpected places. But we can identify the main reasons for the appearance of “vampires” in animals:
- Any walks in nature or even around the city;
- Contact with other animals;
- Larvae.
In the first case, it is obvious that hungry insects are patiently waiting for victims. They have no preference in choosing where to ambush. Grass, foliage, and soil will do. They can be found on the playground, on sidewalks and on public transport. They are everywhere. And there is a simple explanation for this: an animal overpopulated with fleas throws off some of the parasites.
But the risk of having uncomfortable “guests” is even higher - communication between pets. A dog easily picks up fleas, even if it is half a meter away from an infected animal. There is also a risk when interacting with a completely domestic animal.
Larvae, like fleas themselves, can be everywhere. But they are the easiest to bring into a person’s house. On shoes or clothes along with dirt and stuck leaves.
Fleas are tenacious creatures. It is not difficult for them to move freely from one place to another in search of food. They can get into the house through open windows and doors, and even in women's handbags or grocery bags.
IMPORTANT: Fleas are often confused with lice. They are easy to distinguish: the body of lice is usually large and flat, and the legs are short. Fleas are brown in color and lice are grayish-white. The latter are less common, mainly in unkempt pets and stray dogs.
Flea classification
It is difficult for a non-specialist to distinguish one type of flea from another, because to the eye they look the same. But the flea classifier includes many families and species of these insects.
Most often, it is generally accepted to separate fleas according to their choice of prey: human, cat, rat, etc. There is also Ctenocephalidis Canis - this is the so-called dog flea. In fact, not only this species, but also many other species parasitize the dog.
The human flea feeds on the blood of both humans and their domestic animals. They are saturated with blood in 20 minutes, and then digest it for another six hours.
IMPORTANT: Subcutaneous fleas are a myth. There are many parasites that live under the skin, but fleas are not one of them. Duck mites are also mistakenly mistaken for fleas.
- The cat flea also parasitizes other animals and humans.
- A dog flea is similar to a cat flea, but lives a little less (six months to one and a half years). These insects are sources of flatworms and plague.
- More dangerous than the previous ones is the rat flea. She is a carrier of rat and mouse tapeworm.
- The black flea, unlike, for example, the dog flea, reproduces very quickly: the time from being in the larval stage to becoming an adult is barely four days.
- There are grass fleas that are mistaken for other species of fleas. Unlike the others, the grass one has wings, albeit barely noticeable. It is active from mid-spring to mid-summer, but there are exceptions. If you don't get rid of it in time, it can bother you all year round.
IMPORTANT: Grass fleas often inhabit vegetable gardens and eat plants. But this does not mean that they are harmless to humans and animals.
Another special species is the bed flea. Already from the name it is clear where it lives.
Read Food allergies in dogs: how they manifest themselves, treatment methods and causes
How fleas reproduce on dogs
The peculiarity of their reproduction is that in cold weather they prefer not to mate. The ideal temperature for this is 18-25 degrees. Mating itself takes several hours, so it does not happen on the dog’s body, but somewhere in a secluded corner.
The life cycle of these bloodsuckers includes four stages:
- Egg. The female lays them little by little: only 4-8 eggs at a time. Eggs rarely remain on the pet itself; they usually fall to the floor due to their non-stickiness.
- Larva. The dog flea hatches after 8-14 days and begins to feed on the excrement of adults. She needs excrement because it contains undigested blood. Their diet also includes other waste, including rotted grass.
- Doll. After two molts, the pupa weaves a cocoon, which subsequently sticks to it. The flea remains in this stage until a victim appears nearby.
- Imago. Adult stage. Their lifespan greatly depends on the conditions in which they live. At low temperatures they live longer.
Folk remedies for fleas on dogs
Folk remedies are best suited if the dog is pregnant, nursing puppies, or needs to cure a small pet. But in some cases, at an early stage of infection, they can also help an adult dog.
Herbs
The most effective plants are tansy, wormwood, and eucalyptus. You can make decoctions and infusions from them - you can bathe your dog in them. Considered a safe option for puppies and pregnant bitches.
Garlic
Parasites cannot stand the smell of garlic. However, it is worth remembering that garlic is very dangerous for dogs - if ingested, it can cause severe poisoning, even death. A solution is prepared from it: finely chop 3 cloves, add a glass of water, and leave to steep overnight.
The liquid can only be used on that part of the body that the dog cannot reach with its tongue.
Onion
It works similarly to garlic: finely chop the onion, add a glass of water, add a little soap, stir - after a day you can use it.
Laundry soap
A soap-based solution is also popular: mix 1 tsp. fir and tea tree oil with grated soap. It is enough to add the composition to the water when washing dogs.
Essential oils
Parasites are afraid of any essential oil. Therefore, it is enough to add a few drops to the water when washing your dog. But you can also apply a small amount of liquid directly to the withers.
Needles
The smell of pine needles will repel the pest. It is best to place it in your pet's house or on its bedding.
Vinegar
A solution of water and apple cider vinegar in a ratio of 1:3 works well against fleas. You need to lubricate the animal with the resulting composition and wash it off after half an hour.
Chemical pest control agents
If traditional methods do not help or the dog has developed an allergy, you can purchase special industrial preparations aimed at fighting fleas.
Shampoos
Shampoos have a short-term effect, so they are recommended to be used as a preventive method. There are shampoos based on natural ingredients and insecticides. The latter should be used carefully - they can cause allergies. The most famous brands: Beaphar, Fitoelita, Celandine.
Drops
It is considered the most popular and easiest to use product. The number of drops depends on the weight of the dog. On average, the drug lasts 3–5 weeks, then you need to apply the drops again to the withers. The most popular drops: Frontline spot, Celandine.
Sprays and aerosols
Such formulations are very effective, but there may be problems with their use. When using them, you need to try not to point the stream at the face, then make sure that the dog does not lick itself for at least 6 hours. Popular means: Stronghold, Frontline, Bars.
Anti-flea collars
The main advantage is that the effect of the collar can last up to 9 months. It is recommended to put it on your pet at the very beginning of spring. However, if fleas appear, it will not be possible to cure the animal with just a collar. It should not be used on puppies or pregnant dogs. Popular options: HartZ, Beaphar.
Powder
Considered the cheapest option. Powders are manufactured in veterinary pharmacies to order, taking into account the weight of the dog. The main disadvantage is the inconvenience and duration of use.
Pills
Tablets are a fairly common method for controlling fleas. However, it should be noted that this method is not effective enough - it is necessary to combine it with other drugs. In addition, the disadvantages of tablets include the fact that in some cases they can cause allergies. The most popular tablets are Comforts, Capstar.
Scabies is a sign of infection
Dogs get fleas several times during their life. Puppies get them from their mother. Adult animals can easily become infected while walking and even in an apartment if the parasite is brought into the house with clothing. As soon as your dog begins to itch, you should contact your veterinarian. Itching can be caused not only by fleas and worms, but also by allergies to food, shampoos and even flea collars, if your pet wears them constantly for preventive purposes.
Other symptoms include:
- loss of appetite, weight;
- excessive aggressiveness;
- irritability;
- restless sleep.
Experienced dog owners regularly comb the coat on a white surface, for example, in a dry bathtub. After the procedure, spray the surface with water. The brown drops that appear will be a sure sign of the presence of fleas - this will dissolve dried blood that the parasites have not digested. After combing, live fleas, the remains of their vital activity, and larvae will remain on the surface.
What to do if your Pomeranian has fleas? The veterinarian will tell you the exact sequence of actions. He will also prescribe medications and dosage. The choice of anti-flea products today is huge. The doctor must suggest a drug that matches your pet’s breed, age, has a range of effects on both adult fleas and eggs and larvae, and has a long-lasting effect. Preparations for puppies and pregnant dogs should be less toxic and based on natural ingredients. Look for products released as close to the date of use as possible. The fresher the drug, the more effective its effect. Fleas are able to quickly develop immunity to insecticides. Therefore, ask your veterinarian what analogues can be used in the future.
Features of treatment for puppies
Treatment of puppies has its own characteristics that the dog owner needs to know in order to choose the right remedy.
How dangerous are flea bites for a puppy?
For small puppies, fleas are much more dangerous than for adult animals. The main problem is that the puppies' immunity is not fully formed, which is why they become practically defenseless against infectious agents that can enter the bloodstream when bitten by a parasite.
Due to their very delicate skin, allergic reactions in puppies may be more severe.
Signs of a parasite
The main sign of fleas in a puppy is constant itching, falling out fur, and red spots on the skin.
But in order to accurately determine the presence of parasites, you need to carefully examine your pet - in puppies, fleas usually settle near the ears, because that is where the skin is the thinnest.
How to protect babies under 1 month from bloodsuckers?
Until the age of one month, there are no chemical means to protect against fleas, but you can use folk remedies. You can bathe your baby in a bath with tansy or mint - water procedures should last at least 15 minutes.
After this, comb the puppy to remove dead parasites.
Fleas on a 1 month old puppy
At this age, it is also undesirable to use any chemicals. It is better to wash the puppy in a bath with the addition of laundry or tar soap - it will repel parasites.
To get rid of fleas, you must first wet the fur, apply a soap solution for 15 minutes, and then rinse.
Fleas on a 2 month old puppy
At this age, the puppy’s immunity becomes stronger, so more powerful remedies can be used. Best to use:
- special shampoos based on natural ingredients;
- collars based on essential oils.
You can also use sprays and drops, but only if there is only one pet in the house - when there are several puppies in the litter, these products can be dangerous.
Fleas on a 3 month old puppy
At this age, various insecticidal drugs can already be used. Without fear, you can use shampoos, drops, sprays, choosing a product according to your age.
How to remove fleas from older puppies
For dogs older than six months, you can use all the drugs presented at the veterinary market: shampoos, sprays, drops, tablets.
When choosing, be guided by the tendency to develop allergies, general condition, and the severity of flea infestation. If there are a lot of parasites, you should first wash the puppy with shampoo and then treat it with drops.
Review of effective flea medications
It is very difficult to remove fleas, especially if you do not notice their appearance in time. The number of insects increases every 2 weeks, so treatment must be started in the early stages. First of all, you should take the animal to the veterinarian. He will determine which medications will help and will not harm the pet. This is especially important when the target of infection is a puppy or a pregnant female.
In addition to the main drug treatment, it is important to carry out disinfestation:
- Throw away or wash well in hot water the bed, toys, clothes and other dog household items;
- Carry out a wet cleaning of the house with thorough washing of all corners, vacuum the carpets;
- It is better to purchase a special disinfectant and treat the surfaces with it.
You won't be able to get rid of insects forever. Moreover, most likely, the dog will pick them up a few days after breeding. That's why there are long-term products, such as collars, that repel or kill fleas all over your pet's body.
Drops on the withers
The most popular remedy at the moment. It is considered effective and easy to use. Available in the form of liquid drops in separate plastic containers or in bottles with a nozzle. The drug is distributed along the spine or dripped onto the pet’s withers and rubbed into the skin. After this, the animal cannot be washed for 7-10 days , and the duration of action varies from 1 to 1.5 months.
Each drug is accompanied by instructions on dosage distribution and method of administration. Some drops are too toxic or not concentrated enough for a pet's specific weight. It is important to consult a veterinarian and carefully read the supplement to the medicine.
The active substance is absorbed into the blood through the skin and spread through the bloodstream. An insect that bites a dog dies from poison. Therefore, it is important to calculate the dosage so that the pet is not poisoned. In addition, the smell of the drug repels and irritates parasites on the surface of the epidermis.
Drops Lawyer
Known to all veterinarians and experienced dog lovers, the remedy Advocate, from a German company. Available in the form of drops in a disposable plastic pipette. The system of action is similar to other drugs. The medicine affects not only fleas, but also internal parasites - nematodes, cestodes (helminths). A characteristic feature is water resistance.
Advocate is allowed to be used on puppies older than 7 weeks. The dosage is calculated using the formula 0.1 ml per 1 kg of dog weight. There are no special contraindications for the drug. It is advised not to use in combination with other similar medications and for productive pets. In case of overdose, side effects have been identified: increased salivation, trembling, depression. Personal intolerances are possible, which causes irritation, which most often resolves on its own.
The price of the drug is 356-623 rubles per capsule (depending on the number of drops).
Drops Bars
Bars Forte is the most popular domestic drug . It is produced similarly to Advocate - in disposable pipettes in three dosage options. It is calculated from a ratio of 0.2 ml per 1 kg. The area of skin on the withers and spine is lubricated.
Medicine without contraindications. Approved for use from 2 months. Pregnant females are given drops 7-10 days before giving birth. If the dosage is exceeded, frustration, diarrhea, nausea, and swelling may occur. Allergic reactions cause itching.
The drug is positioned as a medicine based on herbal ingredients. The average price for a bottle is 30-40 rubles.
Special shampoos
This type of exterminator is the least effective. It does not get rid of all types of insects, rarely removes all fleas, and does not affect larvae and eggs. Most often, shampoos are used as preventive baths or to treat puppies and small breeds (they are easier to wash). They are also prescribed for one-time use during the main treatment to enhance and accelerate the effect.
Each product always comes with instructions describing the method of use. The shampoo is applied to wet hair, distributed by hand, and foamed with massage movements. You need to leave your pet soaped for 7-10 minutes. After this, the drug is washed off, and the dog is combed with a comb with frequent long teeth to remove dead insects.
The active substance spreads over the surface; if not thoroughly bathed, some areas of the skin may remain uncovered. The shampoo is not absorbed into the skin and does not have a long-lasting effect.
In addition to the insecticidal properties, shampoos also have a wound-healing effect. Some even make the fur manageable and soft.
The most effective and popular drugs are:
- Doctor ZOO - shampoo based on medicinal herbs (chamomile, thyme, bergamot, rosemary) with the addition of keratin and provitamins for coat health; Available for different types of wool (long, short), for washing individual parts of the body; used standardly, approved for daily or frequent use, has no contraindications, can cause allergies in animals prone to it; price – 80-90 rubles per bottle (300 ml);
- Lugovoy - a domestic shampoo with the addition of calendula, chamomile, coltsfoot, contains caring glycerin and lanolin, helps in caring for the coat; approved for occasional use; contraindications: puppies under 12 weeks, lactating females, animals with personal intolerance to components; There are no side effects after use; irritation of the mucous membranes may occur upon contact; price – 160-170 rubles for 270 ml (bottle);
- Beafar is a caring insecticide from a Dutch manufacturer; the composition contains not only active substances, but also aloe oil and wool softening components; the drug should not be used in puppies under 6 months of age, animals with open wounds and scratches, or pregnant females; no side effects were identified; price – 550-600 rubles per bottle (262 grams).
Anti-parasite sprays
Drugs of this type are highly effective, but inconvenient to use. Firstly, the spray must be sprayed all over the pet’s body (except for the muzzle and open areas of mucous membranes), after which the pet must not be touched for about a day. Secondly, the procedure must be carried out on open surfaces, in a well-ventilated area. Thirdly, the animal can easily peel off the substance. Well, the last point is that it’s difficult to dose.
Before applying the spray, the animal is put on a special collar. After which you can carry out disinfestation. It is important to spray the drug directly onto the skin, otherwise, due to its light structure, the substance will not seep through the layer of wool.
Insects die within 2-3 hours after spraying. The duration of the barrier property is 3-4 weeks.
- Frontline is a French drug, available in three types of spray bottles - 100, 250 and 500 ml; dosage – 2-4 sprays for bottles of 250 and 500 ml, 6 presses for 100 ml; use is not allowed for puppies, under 2 weeks of age, animals with wounds on the body; side effects occur only in case of absorption - increased salivation, vomiting; price – 800-2000 rubles, depending on the size of the bottle;
- Biafar is a Dutch medicine based on lavender and margosa oils; characterized by a low level of toxicity; approved for use in dogs older than 12 weeks; there are no contraindications; price – 950 rubles per bottle (150 ml).
Insecticidal collars
Drugs of this format are not therapeutic . They are rarely used as a primary means. Collars are worn on dogs to prevent parasites. After the expiration date, the accessory is replaced.
The effect of the collar is barrier and long-lasting. It can protect your pet from fleas for 2-3 months. The dog can be bathed and stroked, but such products have many contraindications. You need to select the drug carefully, based on the recommendations of specialists and veterinarians.
Some of them are too toxic, can cause dermatitis, and are not recommended for animals with diseased kidneys. There are separate lines for pregnant females and older dogs.
- Celandine - a black polymer tape impregnated with disinfestants, is prohibited for use by puppies under 4 months of age, pregnant females, sick or recovering animals from infectious diseases; no side effects were identified; price – 90-100 rubles;
- Bolfo is a German product, presented in two formats - for large breeds and for small ones, the main difference is the different degree of treatment with toxins; the collar is put on a pre-washed animal and worn for 3 months; no side effects observed; Not allowed for use in dogs under 3 months of age or in sick animals; price – 500 rubles.
Chewable flea tablets for dogs
Unpopular drugs that raise doubts not only among dog breeders, but also among veterinarians. Despite their high effectiveness, the tablets are toxic and often cause severe side effects and allergies.
The principle of operation of such drugs is simple. The animal eats a tablet, which is absorbed through the walls of the stomach and intestines into the blood. The bloodstream carries the substance throughout the body, and the insects are poisoned after being bitten.
- Comfortis – manufacturer – USA; active ingredient – spinosad; prohibited for puppies under 14 weeks, pregnant females, allergy sufferers; dose – 50-70 mg of substance per 1 kg;
- Bravecto is a broad-spectrum tablet with a dubious reputation, it works according to the standard scheme, and also acts on helminths; It is important to consult a veterinarian before use; price – 1200-1300 rubles per package (6 tablets).
Powders
The cheapest flea treatment option. As a rule, it is also the longest. Course – 2-3 weeks of frequent use. A test is required before use. It is important to identify possible allergic reactions. Powders are applied and washed off.
- Trixie is a German drug intended not only for treating animals, but also for disinsection of floor surfaces, carpets and furniture; the medication is safe and has no special contraindications; price – 750-950 rubles;
- Flicar - the drug is applied to dry hair in a volume of 5-10 grams for small dogs and 15-20 for medium and large dogs; the remaining powder is combed out of the wool; treatment is carried out every 3-4 days until signs of infection completely disappear; price – 150-200 rubles.
Important conditions to resolve the problem
Important conditions for eliminating parasites include:
- Once fleas are discovered, action must be taken to eliminate them as soon as possible. If you hesitate, then after 1.5 weeks their number can increase up to 10 times.
- When choosing a product, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian, who will select the best option for the animal depending on its condition and age.
- It is very important to follow the instructions for the drug exactly - this will avoid poisoning and other health problems.
It is important to use an integrated approach to flea removal: you need to not only treat the pet itself, but also the room. It is recommended to combine industrial insecticides and traditional methods.
Is there a flea vaccination?
There is no flea vaccination that protects a pet for a year. However, you can inject an insecticide - the action resembles drops and protects your pet for about 5-6 months. It works as follows: when bitten, the parasite receives a dose of a substance that leads to its death.
Advantages of the method:
- simplicity of the method - just 1 injection is enough;
- the product will not enter the stomach, which eliminates the possibility of poisoning.
However, not everyone can receive such an injection: it is not suitable for puppies under 3 months, dogs prone to allergies, and weakened animals.
Flea repellent drops
These tools are very easy to use. The drops must be applied according to the instructions in a certain amount on the animal’s withers. After this, protect your pet from water for a while and do not bathe him. Each product contains certain active ingredients, which can be used to determine how good and effective the chosen drug is.
But such drops have their drawbacks: their cost is quite high, and in some cases they can be toxic. If your pet is still small, you need to use drops designed specifically for puppies.
Flea repellent drops
Treating the area where the dog lives
To get rid of parasites, it is important not only to treat the pet itself. If you don’t clean your apartment of fleas, then after the effect of the chosen product wears off, they will come back again.
Treating your apartment for dog fleas
There are several methods for processing an apartment:
- Thermal method, but it can only be used in winter. It is enough to take things outside for a few hours or open the windows wide. Another option is to treat things with boiling water.
- Use of chemicals - Reid, Phenaxin, etc. are suitable for treating walls, floor coverings, and furniture. The main thing is to treat everything in the apartment, otherwise the parasites may appear again.
- Using traditional methods. The same products are used as for treating a pet: wormwood, oils. In addition, they can be used in parallel with chemicals to enhance the effect.
If there are too many fleas, it is better to call a special parasite control service.
Processing the dog house
When treating an apartment, you must not forget about the dog’s bed - bedding or house. If the infection is severe, it is recommended to throw away all these products and buy new ones for your pet. But you can also try to remove parasites by placing branches of wormwood or mint in the house.
Safety rules for processing
Regardless of the type of product used, it is important to follow a number of recommendations when treating the dog and the premises:
- You should not use drugs that have expired - not only will they not work, but they can also be dangerous for your pet;
- Before using any product, you must carefully study the instructions;
- if it is not possible to get advice from a veterinarian, then when using the drug you must follow all the dosage instructions prescribed in the annotation and the rules of use;
- if after treatment the pet becomes ill, you must immediately go to the clinic or call a specialist at home;
- It is advisable to carry out treatment in the apartment with gloves and a mask, so as not to inhale the fumes of insecticides; upon completion, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
Ridding your home of fleas, eggs and larvae
It is important not only to treat puppies, but also to treat the dog’s home, where the parasites themselves and their larvae gather. Female fleas lay many eggs, which fall on the floor, litter, and after a few days cocoons appear. They turn into adults and move on to people and dogs.
Attention! Fleas are localized on the dog, and their larvae and eggs remain on carpets and other objects in the house.
For treatment, special drops, sprays and regular vacuuming should be used. Pharmaceutical preparations contain substances that stop reproduction, which provides long-term protection against re-infection. After treating the puppy, you need to apply the product in places where the animal frequently rests (bedding, kennels, floor crevices and baseboards). After a couple of hours, open the windows for ventilation and clean the surfaces with a vacuum cleaner.
Prevention of re-infection
To avoid the recurrence of fleas, it is recommended:
- use a parasite collar;
- inspect your pet’s fur and skin more often;
- monitor hygiene in the house - remove shoes when entering the apartment, clean more often;
- After a walk, wash the dog’s paws and comb it.
There are many flea treatments on the market today, but the tips above will help you avoid infecting your dog. If this does happen, it is important to start treatment as soon as possible.
How to fight fleas
Removing fleas from a dog is a completely feasible task, but to complete it you need to have certain knowledge and patience. Success here largely depends on the competent selection of the product. In addition, for treatment to be as effective as possible, it must be carried out in a timely manner and in conjunction with other measures.
1. Shampoo.
One of the most common remedies for getting rid of bloodsuckers at home. Flea shampoo can be based on insecticides or natural ingredients. Products of the first group are more toxic, but they act faster and more efficiently. Although, insecticides can cause an allergic reaction, increased salivation, and vomiting. Therefore, when using such shampoos, you need to carefully protect the dog’s eyes and mucous membranes from getting the product.
Natural shampoos are a good preventive measure. They have a wound-healing effect and make the coat silky and shiny. After washing your pet with this product and drying your pet's fur, you need to comb out the dead parasites from it. The maximum effect can be achieved by using shampoo in combination with other flea products.
2. Spray.
Disinfection is carried out with a spray by spraying it over the dog’s withers. It is not recommended to treat the entire body, as the dog may lick itself after the procedure. This may cause side effects: vomiting, indigestion, allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, general deterioration of health. Fleas should be killed with a spray in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. Be sure to use rubber gloves. It is important to ensure that children do not come into contact with the animal’s fur during the day. Also, the pet should not sleep in the same bed with a person.
3. Drops.
Considered more effective than shampoo. For treatment, drops are applied to the dog’s withers in the amount specified in the instructions. At the same time, it is important to ensure that the pet cannot lick the drug from the fur. The drops contain an active substance that, when penetrated into the skin and blood of the pet, kills parasites. During the treatment period, the dog should not come into contact with water. The effect of using the product lasts for a month, then the treatment is repeated. Please remember that not all flea drops are safe. Therefore, before starting treatment, you need to consult a veterinarian.
4. Collar.
A collar is the most popular means of removing fleas from dogs. First of all, this is due to the continuous nature of its action. No unsafe active substance enters the pet’s body; it can swim, bathe, and does not require special treatment or prevention.
However, collars also have contraindications:
- the age of the animal is younger than 6 months and older than 10 years;
- pet illness;
- Also, the collar should not be used on pregnant or lactating dogs.
It must be remembered that with constant use of the collar, dermatitis may occur.
5. Powder.
It is considered a safe product, but several tests should be done before using it to avoid side effects such as dermatitis or allergies. The advantages of flea powder include its affordable price, but its disadvantage is the long treatment period (2 weeks).
6. Tablets
They do not get rid of parasites completely, but only help reduce their numbers. The method of using the tablets is simple: they are given to the pet along with food in accordance with the instructions. This drug can also cause side effects: allergies, gastrointestinal disorders.
You can always contact the managers of the Zooapteka74 online store to get advice on choosing the best flea treatment for your pet. Our catalog contains various types of drugs at low prices. You can buy them with delivery throughout Chelyabinsk.