Flea Control
Fleas!
Whether you have a dog or a cat, chances are you will find yourself in need of ridding them of fleas at least once. Below are a few suggestions to help you with the task.
Symptoms
Keep an Eye on Your Pet
Watch your pet for common signs and symptoms of a flea infestation such as excessive biting and scratching, particularly around the tail and lower back areas. Check for raw patches of skin where your dog or cat may have been scratching at fleas for some time. Another bit of evidence is "flea debris," specks of dried blood that are black in color.
Flea Collars and Powders
If you have caught the problem relatively early, it may be possible to eliminate fleas by simply using flea collars and powders. There are several brands and types to choose from, and many contain a special comb with fine teeth that is designed to remove fleas from fur.
Flea Baths
It's helpful to bathe your pet frequently using a specially formulated soap or treatment. It's necessary to take into consideration the type of fur or coat your pet has when bathing. This is particularly true for dogs as some breeds have essential oils that shouldn't be washed away with soap and water more than once or twice a year. If bathing in a flea bath isn't an option for your pet, consult your vet for other alternatives.
Monthly Medication
There are pills available for your pet to take on a monthly basis that will prevent fleas from reproducing, but they do not kill the ones that have already reached adulthood. There are also multi-purpose medications and products available that are designed to prevent fleas from reproducing as well as controlling heartworm, hookworms, whipworms and roundworms.
Use Special Care When Using Flea Products
Fleas will always exist, but with careful planning and proper treatment, they need not become a problem for you or your pet. There are precautionary steps that you can take on a more permanent basis to help in keeping Fleas under control such as, Flea collars, powders, drops, etc. Please be advised that caution should be taken when using flea products on your pet when your pet is consistently around small children. Excessive use of powders and sprays and soaps etc., on your pet when around children who interact with the pet could be harmful to the child. Always use good judgment.
 
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