What should be done for a puppy with fleas? - briefly
Use a vet‑approved flea medication and a pet‑safe shampoo to clear the parasites from the puppy. Then wash all bedding, vacuum carpets, and treat the home environment to eliminate remaining eggs and larvae.
What should be done for a puppy with fleas? - in detail
A puppy infested with fleas requires prompt, systematic action to eliminate the parasites and prevent reinfestation.
First, separate the animal from other pets and limit its access to areas where fleas may hide. Clean the immediate environment by washing all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and drying them on a high‑heat setting.
Select a flea control product that is specifically labeled for young dogs. Options include topical spot‑on treatments, oral medications, and flea collars, each with dosage guidelines based on weight and age. Because puppies have immature immune systems, always verify safety with a veterinarian before applying any chemical agent.
Bath the puppy with a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo. Apply the product according to the label, allowing it to lather and sit for the recommended time before rinsing thoroughly. After the bath, use a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove any remaining adult insects and eggs, working from the head toward the tail.
Treat the home simultaneously. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately. Apply an environmental insecticide spray or fogger that targets flea eggs, larvae, and pupae, focusing on cracks, baseboards, and pet sleeping areas. Repeat the spray according to the manufacturer’s schedule, typically every 2–3 weeks, to interrupt the flea life cycle.
Monitor the puppy daily for signs of ongoing infestation, such as scratching, redness, or visible fleas. Conduct a second combing session after 48 hours, then weekly for at least one month. Schedule a follow‑up veterinary examination to confirm that the infestation has been fully resolved and to discuss long‑term preventive measures, such as regular monthly preventatives and routine grooming.