How to treat a dog's flea comb? - briefly
After each grooming session, soak the flea comb in hot, soapy water, scrub to remove debris, rinse, then disinfect with a diluted bleach solution or pet‑safe sanitizer and let it air‑dry completely before storage. Regular cleaning prevents reinfestation and maintains the tool’s effectiveness.
How to treat a dog's flea comb? - in detail
A flea comb designed for dogs requires regular cleaning, proper use, and safe storage to remain effective against parasites.
First, inspect the comb before each session. Remove any visible debris, hair, or dead insects with a disposable paper towel. Rinse the teeth under warm running water, rotating the comb to dislodge particles lodged in the gaps.
Second, sanitize the tool. Prepare a solution of one part diluted bleach (1 % sodium hypochlorite) or a veterinary‑approved disinfectant. Submerge the comb for 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water to eliminate residual chemicals. Allow the comb to air‑dry on a clean surface; do not use cloths that could re‑contaminate it.
Third, apply the comb correctly during grooming:
- Part the fur in sections, starting near the skin and moving outward.
- Drag the comb through each section slowly, using gentle pressure to catch fleas, eggs, and larvae.
- After each pass, tap the comb over a white surface or use a disposable container to collect the captured parasites for disposal.
- Repeat the process on the entire coat, paying extra attention to the neck, tail base, and hindquarters where fleas tend to congregate.
Fourth, after each grooming session, repeat the cleaning and sanitizing steps. Store the dried comb in a sealed plastic bag or a designated drawer to protect it from moisture and dust.
Additional considerations:
- Use a comb with fine, closely spaced teeth (0.5–1 mm) for small flea stages; coarser teeth can be employed for initial removal of adult insects.
- Avoid applying excessive force that could irritate the skin or break the teeth.
- Incorporate the combing routine into a comprehensive flea‑control program that includes topical treatments, oral medications, and environmental cleaning.
By following these procedures, the flea comb will maintain its mechanical efficiency, reduce the risk of reinfestation, and support overall canine health.