Your Pet and Fleas

Today we have a guest post from Ciara Black of the Dog Help Network entitled "Your Dog and Fleas," however the information can be applied  to cats as well as dogs.  I hope you find it helpful as flea season will be upon us all too soon here in the U.S.

Your Dog And Fleas

About Dog Fleas

Dog fleas are known as Ctenocephalides canis. There are over 2,000 different species of fleas present in the world today. Fleas are capable of jumping from 14 to 16 inches and can spread at a very rapid rate. Female fleas can begin to lay eggs after only 48 hours of feeding. Females can also lay up to 50 eggs in a single day! It is very important to treat your dog for fleas as soon as possible and rid your home and yard of fleas to avoid a serious problem.  Fleas have a lifespan of between 6 to 12 months. Dogs can contract fleas from their environment, so if your dog frequently visit dog parks or kennels, lives in a humid, warm climate, it is important to check regularly to see if your dog has fleas.  It is important to understand how fleas work and what to look for before starting a treatment. A veterinarian will also be able to help you with treatment options and recommendations for ridding your house of fleas.

Symptoms Of Fleas
Fleas cause itching and discomfort in your dog. Not only are they annoying, they can cause serious health problems. There are a number of different symptoms to look for when dealing with a possible flea infestation.

• Itching and biting the fur; a flea’s saliva will cause your dog to itch and scratch his skin. Similar to a human reaction to a mosquito bite.

•  Allergic reaction. Look out for swollen areas where the flea bit. 

•  Hot spots. Hot sports are are red, open wounds caused by licking and biting the skin.
  

•  Flaky skin. This may be similar to dandruff, caused by excessive scratching. 

• Flea debris. Flea debris look like coffee grounds. Flea debris is feces or dead fleas that fall off of your dog when brushed or stroked.

 Natural Remedies For Fleas
There are a number of ways you can reduce, prevent, and repel fleas from your dog and your home. Most home remedies are simple and effective, but may require patience and time to see results.  Flea infestations can be a task to control, but should be dealt with as quickly as possible. Avoiding the use of chemicals around the house is the best alternative for you and your dog when it comes to getting rid of fleas. Some natural remedies for fleas include:

• Vinegar - Apple cider vinegar is best to use when helping to repel fleas. Mix 2 parts apple cider vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle. Soak your dog’s fur with this spray outdoors ( as the fleas may jump off your dog) and comb through. This remedy lasts up to four days. 

• Lemon - Cut one lemon into four pieces and place into boiling water. Let the lemon water sit overnight. Use a spray bottle and spray your dog with the lemon juice mixture. Be cautious around the face and ears. 

• Rosemary - Rosemary can be used around the house as well as on your dog to help repel fleas. Grind up rosemary leaves into a powder. Sprinkle in areas your dog sleeps and in areas he frequently plays around the house. Rosemary is an anti-inflammatory and can help relieve itching and scratching from fleas. Soak fresh rosemary in 2 cups of boiling water for 30 minutes. Add the mixture to one gallon of warm water and soak your dog with the liquid. It is best to let your dog dry naturally. 

• Garlic - Garlic will not kill fleas but act as a repellent. Add a few drops of garlic oil or a bit of garlic clove to your dog’s food. 

• Neem - Neem oil has been around for a long time and is highly praised for natural flea control. It doesn’t kill the fleas immediately, but helps to repel them and affects the flea’s growth. Neem shampoo is available for helping treat dogs with fleas. 

For more information about dog fleas, causes, treatment options and more home remedies, please visit www.dogfleashelp.com