Fleas are parasitic insects that feed off of dogs’ fur, causing itching skin. Because fleas carry tapeworms and other diseases as well, prevention is key.
There is an array of flea treatments available on the market. Some work better than others and some are safer than others – so consult your veterinarian first about which option is most beneficial for your pet.
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Oral Medications
Fleas are a common pest that can be hazardous for your dog. Not only do they irritate the skin, causing itching, inflammation and swelling but they may also spread ear mites and intestinal worms.
Preventative medication is the best way to protect your pet against flea infestation. These drugs, usually administered monthly, help keep your pup protected from these pesky pests.
These medications work by disrupting fleas’ nervous systems when taken orally. They come in various forms such as tablets, sprays and chewables for ease of administration.
Oral medications are typically easier for your dog to take than topical treatments, since many can be given with food or on an empty stomach. This makes them much less challenging to swallow if your pup has trouble with his food choices.
Topical Medications
One of the most successful vet-recommended flea treatments for dogs is topical medication. These products eliminate existing infestations and prevent re-infestation, helping you save both time and money in the long run.
They also help control other pests like ticks and chewing lice. These treatments can be taken orally or sprayed on the skin, making them easy to use.
Some veterinarians suggest combining topical with oral medications, but they caution that this should only be considered in certain instances.
Fleas and ticks are parasites that can cause skin irritation, infections, and more. Not only that but they’re also carriers of disease and infection.
Vets typically recommend combining topical and oral flea treatments to keep your pet safe and healthy. These solutions can effectively eliminate fleas and other pests on your dog’s body as well as stop ticks from attaching themselves.
Home Treatments
If you think your dog may have fleas, don’t be afraid to take him in for a checkup. Your veterinarian usually has an effective and safe solution that’s both safe and effective for your pup.
Flea control for dogs can come in the form of topical products sprayed on your pup’s fur and skin or oral tablets that travel through their bloodstream to eliminate biting fleas. Oral medications should be given at one or three month intervals, along with other preventatives to protect against ticks, heartworm disease and other intestinal parasites.
When dealing with an infestation, it’s essential to remember that bathing your dog only removes a fraction of the problem – 95% of flea populations are eggs, larvae and pupae. Therefore, treating your home to eliminate all fleas is vital for minimizing both their size and impact of the outbreak.
Tick Control
Fleas and ticks are unwelcome guests that can give your pet itchy bites, carrying diseases that could be hazardous for both your pup and family. Fortunately, we have some vet-recommended flea and tick prevention options for both of you that are both safe and effective.
Oral medications, also referred to as flea pills, are the most widely-used method of controlling flea and tick infestations. These highly effective medications come in various formulations for maximum effectiveness.
Most oral medications can be given with food, making it easier for your pet to swallow the pill. On the other hand, if they tend to spit out pills in wet foods, you might want to consider switching over to an oral product that doesn’t require food.
The best tick preventatives use a combination of repellents and killing chemicals to work by preventing ticks from attaching to your pet and eliminating any that do. They’re an ideal choice for dogs and cats who spend time outdoors.
