How to get rid of Dog Fleas

Did you know that most fleas are capable of transmitting harmful diseases and also cause tapeworm. Anyone working vet nurse jobs will tell you that removing fleas from your dog is a must when it comes to hygiene and safety. Fleas enjoy warm, humid environments so you may not see as many in the winter - but be sure to look out for them this summer! They could practically be crawling on your dog now. Here are the steps to take if you have discovered your dog has fleas.

Take your dog to the veterinarian for a check up at least twice a year. Afterwards try to ensure that your dog has the proper environment to live and grow in, free of any possible flea infestation. Thoroughly Vacuum your home and do so regularly. Pay particular attention to those areas of the home that go unseen such as basements, cracks, corners, and crevices. Ensure that the vacuum cleaner bags are disposed of carefully, since adult fleas might get out. It is also important that your pet’s friends are chosen carefully. Try to stay away from any animals that you might suspect of carrying fleas.

Pruning your backyard should be done on a regular basis. This is one of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to flea prevention since they do not tend to their backyard often. Any foliage or grass should be trimmed short, so the sunlight can scorch those areas. It will become too dry and overbearing for fleas to live there and most of them will start dying quickly.

Take a fine tooth comb and use it on your pet to remove fleas. Be sure to look under or around the ear area, on top of the head, and the rest of the body. This type of comb was perfect for removing fleas, so don’t be afraid to use a few and flick them into soap water when finished.

Bathe your pet regularly. If you have a small dog, it would be fine to set them in the tub. Run hot water first before you do so or you may scare your pet. Use special dog shampoo and pay close attention to the areas that were heavily infested with fleas, making sure you lather up a lot.

Keep an eye out after you have removed the fleas from your dog. Watch for any kind of itching or biting in areas they normally do not clean. You may want to visit the pet store and pick up chemically treated products to add to your dog’s coat. They are added on a monthly basis, keeping the fleas away for good.