Product Search

Flea prevention:

It’s that time of year again.  Spring has sprung so it’s only natural for you and your pet to enjoy spending time outdoors again. Of course, this means an increased chance of exposure to fleas since they tend to run rampant in wild animals such as raccoons and foxes.

First of all, flea control and flea prevention is the priority.  In order to prevent fleas and flea bites we need to fully understand what they are.  Fleas have the ability to transmit tapeworms and create allergic reactions which can result in scratching, hair loss, and infection.  It’s incredibly important to keep your dog away from fleas.  After all, fleas enjoy thriving on your dog’s blood which can result in anemia and other medical disorders. 

Fleas are essentially insects without wings, but they have mouthparts that suck on the blood of their hosts.  While their bodies are flat side to side, they are agile in moving across your dog’s fur.  Plus, they lay small white eggs.  Their larvae are small and although they don’t have eyes, they have strong mouthparts with the ability to chew.  Whereas the adult flea thrives on the blood of its host, the larvae feed on organic matter such as the feces of more mature fleas.

They fester in moist, warm, and shady areas such as patios, porches, and dog houses.  As a responsible pet owner, be sure to clear away outside matter such as grass clippings, leaves, etc which would create havoc in an otherwise sedentary flea community.  While new medications attempt to kill the adult insects or prevent their eggs from hatching altogether, there are over the counter medicine which will assist in this matter.

Since flea bites may be unnoticeable in your dog, some outward symptoms include hair loss, red lesions, and itching.  You may need to find the adult fleas in the animal such as using a flea comb to detect fleas and flea bites (usually found on the head of your dog). If you notice symptoms in your pet and/or have discovered a flea infestation, call your veterinarian immediately.

Plus, that’s not all. You’ll need to clean your house as well. Since fleas can thrive for several months in your house and yard (flea eggs can stay alive in carpets, cushions, and curtains for years!), it’s critical to keep your house clean as well since people are prone to flea bites, too.  

At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ health and well being.  For more information about flea prevention and flea control and to shop online now click here!