Flea Infestation Treatment

Dogs are main spreaders of fleas.

Dogs and fleas naturally go together. There are ways to try to keep your dog from getting fleas, but they can still get them no matter what you do. When they do get them, you need another strategy that will eliminate flea infestations.

Prevention

The best defense is good prevention measures. Products such as Frontline can be applied directly to the animal, and they generally work well. Attention must be paid to when it is time for another treatment. Flea collars and baths can also keep fleas away.

Diagnosis

Usually it will be obvious when your pet has fleas from all the scratching. If you are unsure, comb your pet with a fine-toothed comb. If you find fleas, or tiny black specks, you likely have a flea problem. Cats and other furry animals can also bring fleas into a house.

Assaulting fleas

Doing several things at once - vacuuming, give the pet a bath, wash sheets or bedding where animal sleeps or plays, treating the infested area without chemicals, and treatments on the lawn - will eliminate many problems. It is important to do them all at once as fleas can easily move from a treated area to an untreated area.

Chemicals

Some people prefer to not use chemicals, and they can be abused. Anything that can kill a flea, could potentially harm your pet. However, using just one is very safe and effective in knocking out fleas. It is only a problem when you use too many at the same time or too much of one thing.

All natural

There are some natural remedies, including: citrus repellent, aromatherapy, nutritious food, herbal flea collars and baths using essential oils. Eating garlic - or garlic oil on food - is also said to prevent fleas from attaching to your dog.

Balanced attack

Veterinarians recommend using a variety of approaches in combating fleas. While natural remedies are good, it is best to use some chemicals to have the most success. Just don't go overboard and use too many chemicals at one time.

Don't forget the yard

There are many yard treatments available, and you can get flea treatments done on your lawn at the same time you get termite treatments. For major in-house infestations, treating the lawn is a necessity.

References

• The Flea Control Guide
• Managing flea problems

Resources

• Home remedies
• Even more home remedies