Flea Control

Flea Control

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.

Keep an Eye on Your Pet
Watch your pet for commons 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.

Fleas will always exist, but with careful planning and proper treatment, they need not become a problem for
you or your pet.