How to Get Rid of Fleas on Dogs

Since the beginning of time, dogs have been having problems with flea infestations. Fleas are tiny insects that literally feed off of the blood of dogs and other animals. These insects do not have wings, but they have strong legs and great jumping abilities. Fleas are often contracted by the dogs while outdoors. The flea lives on the dog and also lays its eggs on it. The eggs fall off of the dog and will hatch wherever it falls, whether that be outside or in the home of the dog owner. Often, dog owners wonder to themselves as to how to get rid of fleas on dogs.

Fleas cause a lot of distress to dogs, such as intense itching, loss of hair, lesions on the skin, and bumps on the skin that are raised and red. In addition to this, fleas have been known to be transmitters of a wide variety of diseases, including heartowm disease which can be deadly. For all of these reasons, it is extremely important for dog owners to learn how to get rid of fleas on dogs and to take strong action. This sometimes is not an easy task. There are many preventative medications that you can give to your dog that will prevent fleas from harming your dog. Some of the more popular and effective brands are Frontline Plus for Dogs, K9 Advantix for Dogs, and Advantage for Dogs. There is also a product called Capstar for Dogs which is effective at killing all fleas present on the dog within a couple of hours of giving the pill. This can be effective to get ahead of the infestation if given prior to a bath and followed with a monthly preventative to keep the fleas off after they are all killed.

There are also many flea shampoos that are on the market that can help with flea infestation. It will also be extremely important to purchase and use a flea comb that is designed for how to get rid of fleas on dogs. The flea comb will trap the fleas as you comb your dog. After each stroke of the comb, simply dip the comb into soapy water in order to remove and kill the fleas.

Those who know how to get rid of fleas on dogs suggest that it is of extreme importance that you also take action to remove the fleas from your yard as well as your home. Constant vacuuming of carpeting, as well as keeping everything in the home environment scrupulously clean will help tremendously. For severe infestations, borax can be sprinkled onto carpeting and other areas to help to get rid of the fleas. The grass in the yard should be kept short, in order to prevent fleas from settling there. Cedar chips can also be placed in areas in which your dog frequents, and also along your fence, as these naturally will repel the fleas.