How should flea drops be applied to a dog’s scruff? - briefly
Part the hair at the nape of the neck to expose the skin and place the prescribed number of drops directly onto the skin, not the coat. Keep the dog from licking the spot until the product dries.
How should flea drops be applied to a dog’s scruff? - in detail
Apply spot‑on flea medication directly to the skin at the base of the neck, where the fur is thin and the dog cannot lick it. Follow these steps precisely:
- Choose a product labeled for the dog’s weight class. Verify the expiration date and that the formulation is appropriate for the animal’s health status.
- Hold the dog calmly, preferably on a stable surface. If the dog is restless, enlist a helper to gently restrain the neck while you work.
- Locate the scruff: the area just behind the ears and above the shoulders. Part the hair with your fingers to expose the skin.
- Remove the cap from the tube. Hold the applicator upright, avoiding tilting that could cause excess liquid to run.
- Press the tip against the exposed skin and dispense the entire dose in one spot. Do not spread the liquid over a larger area; the medication is formulated to absorb from a single point.
- Release the dog immediately after application. Allow the skin to dry naturally; do not rub or massage the spot.
- Monitor the dog for a few minutes to ensure no immediate adverse reaction, such as redness or excessive licking. If irritation occurs, contact a veterinarian.
Repeat the treatment according to the product’s recommended interval, typically every 30 days, and keep records of each application date. Store remaining product in a cool, dry place out of reach of children and pets.