A dog has fleas: what should be done at home? - briefly
«Treat the infestation promptly with a veterinarian‑recommended flea shampoo, followed by a monthly topical or oral preventive. Clean bedding, vacuum carpets, and wash the dog’s environment to break the life cycle.»
A dog has fleas: what should be done at home? - in detail
When a canine companion is infested with fleas, immediate action prevents rapid population growth and reduces the risk of skin irritation, anemia, and secondary infections.
The first step is to confirm the presence of parasites. Adult fleas appear as small, dark specks moving through the fur; their eggs and larvae may be seen as white, powder‑like debris on the coat and bedding.
Bathing the animal with a veterinary‑approved flea shampoo eliminates adult insects on contact. Apply the shampoo according to the product instructions, ensuring thorough coverage of the entire body, including the tail base and underbelly. Rinse completely to avoid residue that may cause skin irritation.
After the bath, use a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove remaining fleas, eggs, and debris. Comb in sections, wiping the comb blade with a damp cloth after each pass. This mechanical removal reduces the immediate burden and facilitates inspection of skin for lesions.
Simultaneously, treat the home environment. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture daily for at least two weeks; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into an outdoor trash container after each use. Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on a high‑heat setting. For non‑washable items, apply an insecticide spray labeled for indoor use against flea eggs and larvae, following the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
Administer a systemic flea control product to the dog. Options include oral medications containing insect growth regulators (IGRs) and adulticides, or topical spot‑on treatments that spread across the skin surface. Choose a product with a minimum one‑month efficacy period and adhere to the dosing schedule recommended by a veterinarian.
Preventive measures sustain long‑term protection. Maintain a regular grooming routine that includes weekly combing with a flea comb. Keep the yard trimmed, remove leaf litter, and treat outdoor areas with a pet‑safe adulticide if wildlife or stray animals are present.
Monitor the situation for at least six weeks, the typical flea life cycle duration. Re‑inspect the coat and environment weekly; repeat bathing and combing if live fleas are observed. If infestations persist despite rigorous home treatment, seek veterinary evaluation for alternative prescription products or combination therapies.