ShareThisQuestion: by LP
What is the best thing for fleas?…I think my dog has some, he is all itchy scratchy and I think I see a couple bites on his belly.
Dear LP,
there are a few things that should be done to determine if fleas are the problem. ” To fleas, taking a ride on a dog can be compared to travel in business class. They get a ride, a meal and a comfort. If you find them, convincing them to leave may be a challenge .”
On a more serious note,
- take a flea comb and do a very thorough check especial around the neck, tail and on the abdomen. Take a few samples from other areas too. Comb deep to ensure that you will not miss any “secret travelers.” Repeat this several times during the day and in the evening to increase the accuracy of your
- If you find fleas, go to point 5 or read on to get a complete picture.
- If you have not found fleas, there may be many other reasons to itching and scratching. The body usually eliminates toxins, impurities from the body, it signals inbalances in other organs like digestion, liver function, the immune system. Sometimes it signals the “body’s disagreement” with medication, vaccines or the type of diet. I believe that you dog was vaccinated fairly recently. The negative effects of vaccination may persist months and if symptoms appear, they should be addressed.
- Scratching or licking may also be a sign muscle pain, tightness or discomfort in the area. Dogs often try to get a relief by this, however, they traumatize their the skin which causes rashes and irritation.
- If you find fleas, I do not recommend using any chemical or pharmaceutical products on long term basis. However, if the infestation is severe, (more then 1 – 2 fleas ) you may need to use Advantage once or twice, 1 month apart.
- Steam clean or thoroughly vacuum rugs , carpets, washing the bedding and repeat this as often as you can.
- For years I have tried to find the best natural ways of preventing fleas. There are numerous recommendations about different essential oils, garlic preparations and other natural products. In my experience, they do not seem to work well.
- Raw and natural food being the only good prevention. Fleas appear to prefer pets fed on high carb diet, in other words. they are sugar. Naturally fed pets are healthier and generally much more resistant to parasites.
- There is no 100% effective method, however good health, low stress, minimal vaccination, good food and frequent combing and house cleaning are the key.
- My dog Skai spent years at my practice, meeting hundreds of animals and had fleas only once. about 5 years ago.
- If you find no fleas or lice, we can set up an appointment to talk about further treatment