A Canine Flea Allergy

Dogs can catch fleas from their bedding.

Any dog with fleas will feel itchy and scratch at the flea bites. However, some dogs develop a hypersensitivity or allergy to even a small number of fleas on their skin. If the flea allergy is allowed to progress untreated, the dog may develop bacterial infection in areas of irritated skin. It is important to prevent these dogs from becoming exposed to fleas in their environment, according to Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Symptoms

The symptoms of flea allergies in dogs are easily recognized by the extreme scratching, chewing and licking at itchy skin. Dogs with flea allergies often have red, inflamed skin or patches of small, red bumps, scabs or crusts. They may also have salivary stains on their coat. Fleas commonly bite the abdomen, lower back and the base of the tail. Most dogs with flea allergies show signs between ages 1 and 3. Some dogs will become less sensitive with age.

Flea Allergy

Dogs with flea allergies are not allergic to the fleas but to the flea's saliva. Saliva from fleas contains polypeptides, aromatic compounds and phosphorus. These compounds are antigenic, meaning they stimulate the release of antibodies and can cause allergies.

Secondary Infection

If the allergic reactions to flea bites go untreated, secondary infections can develop. Opportunistic bacteria may grow in the damaged skin. A veterinarian may include antibiotics in the treatment of flea allergies to treat an underlying bacterial infection. Dogs with flea allergies may also develop infestations of tapeworms. Dogs become infested with tapeworms by ingesting the fleas, which are tapeworm hosts, during grooming.

Treatment

A veterinarian may treat a dog with a flea allergy using antihistamines, specially formulated shampoos, steroids and even allergy shots. Owners can reduce the number of fleas on the dog using a flea comb. However, this is time-consuming and not highly effective, according to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture. Shampooing the dog helps by removing skin flakes and scabs, which are used as food in early stages of flea development.

Absence of Fleas

Don't be surprised if your dog does not appear to have any fleas. Dogs with flea allergies are driven to groom constantly by the extreme itching on their skin. The grooming causes the dogs to ingest most of the fleas and their waste, making it appear as if the dog has few or no fleas.

Prevention

Prevention is the key to keeping your allergic dog healthy. Fleas live in the dog's surroundings, and must be removed to prevent flea bites. The dog's bedding should be regularly washed. Steam clean the carpets, or vacuum often and immediately remove the vacuum bag and place it in an outdoor trashcan. Spray the yard to kill flea larvae. If you are concerned about chemicals in insecticidal sprays, just use water. Plain water may not remove all the larvae, but it can greatly reduce their numbers.

References

• Flea Allergy Dermatitis
• Fleas: What They Are, What to Do