Your dog has been itchier than normal? You suspect that your dog may have fleas, but aren't sure how to check? You've found the right place. Here are some simple methods to check for fleas on your dog at home.
Do you think your dog has fleas?
When I see my dog itch, I always ask myself if he has fleas. Most of the time, it is just normal itching and not caused by fleas. Every time she itches more than normal, I check for fleas to be sure.
This is one way to ensure that I catch any fleas (or flies ) early. Checking your dog's skin and fur regularly is the best way to detect a infestation of fleas early.
It's simple to incorporate home checks into your grooming routine. Regularly checking your dog's skin and coat can help you spot any changes or problems.
Early detection of fleas makes treatment easier
The sooner you detect a flea problem, the better. The flea population multiplies very quickly, so it is important to catch them before they multiply.
The fleas can also be very uncomfortable for your dog. And the longer the infestation lasts, the more likely it is they will suffer from diseases and health conditions related to fleas.
Even if your pets are not itching, you should check each one individually if you have multiple pets. Fleas are known to jump from one host to another. If you have fleas on your pet, chances are that they're also in the other pets.
What Does Fleas Look Like on a Dog?
Close up of an adult flea
The first thing to do when you want to check your dog for fleas is to learn how to identify the insects. Fleas can be found in a variety of colors, from brownish red to black. Fleas have a size of 1/16 to 1/8 (1-2.5 mm).
The six long legs of these fleas allow them to leap great distances. Fleas are able to avoid your dog's teeth and claws because of their long legs and high speed.
Fleas may be difficult to see with the naked eyes depending on the length and color of your dog's fur. Fleas can be difficult to find on dogs with thicker or darker fur. They can be difficult to see because they are fast and jump about.
Fleas can be difficult to detect, so you will need to rely on flea dirt in order to tell if your dog is infested. The flea dirt that appears on your dog's skin is actually flea waste. Flea dirt is visible when the specks become reddish brown after getting wet.
Three Simple Ways To Check Your Dog for Fleas At Home
Early detection of a flea infestation can save you from a lot more hassle. Untreated fleas may turn into an infestation that is difficult to manage.
Remember that our dogs can be more susceptible to fleas when the weather gets hotter, especially if you spend a lot time outdoors. If your dog spends much time outside, checking for fleas is a daily task. It's easy to check for fleas once you get used to it.
How can you tell if your dog is infested with fleas or not? It's important to check your dog for signs of fleas if they are itching more often than usual. You can check yourself using these 3 easy methods.
1. Use the white towel test to check your dog for fleas
Use a white sheet or towel to test for fleas, especially if your dog's fur is dark or thick. Laika is tested by laying her on her side while brushing her on a white sheet or towel. If I notice any dirt or dark spots on the towel, I know there's a problem.
On a white bed sheet, adult fleas can be easily identified. You may have “flea dust” on your dog. Flea dust is a mixture of flea poop and blood. It looks like tiny specks. You can tell that fleas are responsible for those specks if you dampen them and they turn a reddish-brown color.
This video shows how to use a white towel and a flea-comb.
2. Check Your Dog Visually for Fleas
Adult fleas can be small (between 1/16 and 1/8 inches) and move quickly. You may not even notice fleas if your dog does not have a severe infestation. Again, the color and thickness of your dog's coat can make it difficult to visually check for fleas. You know how hard it can be to visually check a dog with thick, black fur.
Start with the abdomen. You're looking for flea poop if you see any dark spots on your dog that look like dirt. Flea feces can appear on your dog as black pepper-like specks.
Grab a wet paper towel if you suspect that your dog has flea dirt. If the spots change color, rub the towel on them. Flea feces become reddish brown when wet.
Fleas can live anywhere between 16 days and 21 months depending on the environment. They are usually found on the dog's head, base of tail, abdomen, or the base. – PET MD
3. How to use a flea comb on your dog
You should get a flea-comb if you live in an area where your dog may be at risk of getting fleas. You don't need to spend money on expensive items that do a better job than picking off the fleas one by one. This flea-comb has two rows of teeth. It's less than $5 and works well on my medium-length haired dog.
You can use a bowl filled with hot water to dip the fleas in between each row of teeth. Squashing them will not work because they are able to jump a long distance. It is easiest to kill them by soaking them in hot, scalding water.
What should you do if your dog has fleas?
It can be overwhelming to find yourself in the midst of a flea invasion. It's difficult to know where to begin with so many different medications and treatments.
You should take your puppy to the veterinarian if you find fleas. fleas can cause anemia very quickly in young dogs. If left untreated, it could be fatal.
What if your dog itchs but it's not fleas?
It is possible that you will not be able catch every flea infestation. can itch due to many other conditions or reactions. It's best to visit your vet to find out what is causing the itching.
Itchy pets are uncomfortable, regardless of their diagnosis. A trip to the vet can help relieve the discomfort and identify the cause.
A veterinary diagnosis can confirm suspected infestations by examining the animal, performing a physical exam, and possibly using skin tests. Cornell University