One of the most common health issues dogs face is a flea infestation. After latching onto your dog, fleas can spread to your family, other pets, and throughout your home. These external parasites cause discomfort for your pet and sometimes carry diseases, but their size makes them difficult to spot. The following guide explains how regular dog grooming can help you deal with your pet’s potential flea problem.

How to Detect & Treat Fleas

What Are the Symptoms of a Flea Infestation?

The most characteristic sign of fleas on dogs is constant itchiness. Although it’s normal for dogs to scratch now and then, excessive itching to the point of breaking the skin suggests that something is irritating your pet. You might also find red bumps scattered around the area the fleas are occupying. If you suspect your pet has a flea issue, dog grooming can help confirm the culprit. Obtain a flea comb from your local pet supplies store and gently but deeply brush through your dog’s fur. Check for dark brown specks of flea feces, known as flea dirt, and adult fleas along the teeth of the comb.

How Do You Treat Dogs With Fleas?

Once you find signs of fleas, have a qualified vet or dog grooming service check your pet over as soon as possible to verify their presence. If they do detect fleas, they’ll recommend treatments in the form of pills, sprays, creams, powders, or topical liquids, often followed by a bath. Preventative flea treatments, which pets should receive year-round, are an effective way to help eliminate current pests and thwart future infestations.

Because of their propensity to spread, you’ll also need to treat any other pets you may have at home as well as the house itself. Bathe your other pets in flea shampoo whether or not they show symptoms. Vacuum the entire house, wash all dog beds and soft toys in hot water, and throw out anything that can’t be washed. With thorough cleaning, patience, and regular use of preventative care, your pest problem should be gone within a few months.

If your dog has a flea infestation, visit Pet Fashion & Grooming for effective treatment. As Hudson Heights, Manhattan’s premier comprehensive pet care shop, they provide the high-quality products and services your pet needs to be happy and healthy. On top of dog grooming, they also offer day care, boarding, food and care products, accessories, and an animal clinic. Browse their comprehensive list of services online. To set up an appointment, call (347) 726-9409.