If your dog suddenly starts scratching themselves with vigor, the cause might be fleas or ticks. These pesky parasites can cause discomfort for your furry friend, so it’s important to take the appropriate steps if you suspect that there’s a flea and tick problem in your home. Here’s what you should know.

Flea Control for Dogs

What’s a Flea?

Fleas are persistent, wingless insects that make their home within the cozy confines of your dog’s fur. These critters are as small as poppy seeds, making them extremely difficult to detect. Although fleas and ticks are often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that they do differ. The latter is an arachnid, or a spider-like creature, that feeds on a wide range of hosts, from snakes to humans.

How Do They Affect Dogs & Humans?

Dogs usually make their discomfort evident by scratching, moving their heads violently, or biting their skin. To determine the cause, check your dog’s warm areas, like their armpits, ears, and groin, as these places are where fleas and ticks thrive.

If your dog is infected, you might notice that their skin appears reddish, and you may spot small, black fleas or larvae. On humans, these pests cause welts similar to those produced by ants. You might experience redness, itchiness, or bumps if you’re bitten.

Are There Any Effective Home Remedies?

Flea and tick control products are usually effective at preventing these persistent pests from biting your pets. If you discover their presence, it’s important to wash your dog with a shampoo designed to treat the problem. After rinsing, you should notice the fleas come off their fur. Place a bowl of soapy water next to a light overnight. If there are fleas in the vicinity, they’ll flock to the light, then drown in the bowl.

If you’re concerned that your dog is experiencing this stubborn problem, it’s important to contact a pest control professional that has significant experience treating fleas and ticks. The team at Dick’s Fumigation Services is proud to serve homeowners throughout Wailuku, HI. They’re trained to deal with these tricky critters and will ensure your home is safe and clean so that both your pets and family remain healthy. They also eradicate ants, termites, and bedbugs. View their services online, or call (808) 244-7496 to schedule an appointment.