A dog has fleas, how should I treat the house? - briefly
Clean and vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstery, then wash all pet bedding and fabrics in hot water; follow with a flea‑killing spray or fogger approved for indoor use. Treat the dog with a veterinarian‑recommended flea control product to prevent re‑infestation.
A dog has fleas, how should I treat the house? - in detail
When a canine is found to be carrying fleas, the environment must be addressed simultaneously with the animal to prevent re‑infestation.
First, treat the dog with an approved adulticide—topical spot‑on, oral tablet, or collar—according to the product label and veterinary guidance. Continue the regimen for the recommended period to eliminate emerging fleas from the life cycle.
Remove all bedding, blankets, and washable fabrics the pet has contacted. Wash them in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to starve any hidden stages.
Thoroughly vacuum every carpet, rug, upholstered seat, and floor surface. Pay special attention to seams, crevices, and pet‑favorite spots. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed trash container, then clean the vacuum’s filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger labeled for indoor flea control. Follow these steps:
- Choose a product with a proven residual effect (at least 4 weeks).
- Cover or remove food, dishes, and pet supplies not intended for treatment.
- Treat all carpeted areas, under furniture, and along baseboards.
- Allow the space to ventilate for the period specified on the label before re‑occupying.
After chemical treatment, maintain a strict cleaning schedule for at least one month: vacuum daily, wash pet bedding weekly, and repeat spot‑treatments in high‑traffic zones as needed.
Finally, implement long‑term prevention on the dog—monthly prophylactic medication or a flea‑preventive collar—and keep the home environment dry and clutter‑free to reduce habitats suitable for flea development. Consistent application of these measures will eradicate the current infestation and minimize future risk.