Fleas are parasitic insects that live and feed off their hosts and are often found on pets like cats and dogs. If you own a dog, it's essential to understand how they can affect your pet and the necessary steps to take for effective prevention. Follow this guide to learn more about how to protect your dog from fleas and the ways a veterinarian can help.

A Guide to Fleas & How to Prevent Them

What Are the Signs?

Since fleas burrow deep in a dog’s fur or coat, your pet will likely experience an increase in itchiness marked by excessive scratching and chewing. In addition to making your pet uncomfortable, fleas cause "hot spots" of dry and inflamed skin where patches of fur may fall out; they can also trigger skin allergies and increase a dog's susceptibility to contracting other parasites like tapeworms.

Red, pimple-like bumps will be visible on their skin. Fleas are drawn to warm spots on a pet. Look for bumps on their belly, groin, legs, around the base of the tail, and behind the ears. Fleas themselves can sometimes be seen in the fur as tiny dark spots.

What Are the Prevention & Treatment Options?

Prevention is key to avoiding these possible outcomes. Keeping your home clean by vacuuming and routinely washing your dog’s bedding will help keep fleas at bay.

Consult your veterinarian for an appropriate flea preventative such as oral or topical medications. They're often administered monthly, depending on the medicine.

Your veterinarian may also recommend a flea shampoo, spray, or medication to help curb your dog’s itchiness. In many cases, a bath with lukewarm water and mild soap can remove fleas from a dog's skin and coat.

A flea comb can also be helpful; these fine-toothed combs make it easier to spot fleas and their droppings and lift them off your dogs. They’re handy for dogs whose thicker coats hide fleas more easily.

The veterinarians at Vintage Park Veterinary Clinic will be your pet’s ally for flea prevention and treatment. Serving the Sacramento, CA, area, they offer a variety of pet services designed to keep your beloved companion animals safe and healthy. From exams and vaccinations to pet teeth cleanings, they’re dedicated to your pet's health and wellness. Call (916) 688-5486 or visit them online to schedule an appointment.