Stop Scratching! 3 Steps To Protect Your Pet From Fleas

Posted on: 24 April 2016

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Summer is just around the corner. It's time to start worrying about fleas, especially if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors. If your dog is allergic to flea's, you need to be extra cautious. Flea allergies can make your dog downright uncomfortable. Flea allergies can cause your dog to chew and scratch at their skin until they're bloody and raw. Here are some simple strategies to help keep fleas off your dog this summer.

Keep Doggy Beds Clean

Flea control begins with a clean bed. Fleas get carried in on your dog and then hide in the creases and crevices of the bed. To keep fleas off the doggy bed, you should clean it at least once a week – especially during the summer months. Place the bed in the washing machine and wash it in hot water. To dry it, place it in the clothes dryer and run it through a full cycle on the hottest setting. If the dog bed is too large to place in a washing machine, vacuum the entire bed and then place it in a black plastic bag. Seal the bag and leave it outside in the heat to kill the fleas.

Limit Outdoor Activities

Fleas hide in tall grass and brush. If your dog is allergic to fleas, try to limit the amount of time your dog is outside during the day. If your dog is going to be outside, use a natural flea deterrent to protect it from fleas.

Supplies You'll Need

  • Plastic spray bottle
  • Water
  • Vinegar
  • Lavender essential oil
  • Eye dropper

Directions

  1. Fill your spray bottle with equal parts water and vinegar.
  2. Add 10-15 drops of lavender essential oil.
  3. Shake the bottle to mix the solution.
  4. Spray your dog with the solution and comb through the fur for even distribution.
  5. Apply the solution each time your dog goes outside.

See the Veterinarian

If your dog has severe flea allergies, you should talk to your veterinarian about allergy shots. Canine allergy shots will provide year-round protection against all types of allergies, including flea allergies. The allergy shots are a series of vaccinations that your veterinarian can administer in the office. You can also talk to your veterinarian about administering the shots at home.

If your dog has flea allergies, your veterinarian can provide a proper treatment plan to alleviate the discomfort associated with flea bites. Use the steps described above to help keep fleas away from your pet. To find out more, speak with someone like Kenmore Veterinary Hospital.