How to Treat Sand Fleas

When fleas take up residence in a beloved pet's fur, it's painful for the pet and frustrating for those they live with. A sand flea is different from the traditional flea, as it is not an insect but a tiny crustacean that lives in sandy environments and typically feeds on marine life. Because the fleas do not usually leave their native environment, they typically invade the home aboard a pet who has come in contact with them on the beach.

Things You'll Need

  • Veterinarian
  • Pet shampoo
  • Vacuum
  • Flea spray
  • Washing machine
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take the animal to a veterinarian. Standard fleas live in an animal's fur, feeding when they bite. Sand fleas bite, too, but they can also burrow into flesh and eat the pet's skin as well as drink its blood. A veterinarian can safely remove any of the fleas that have burrowed into the skin as well as identify lesions and possible infections.

    • 2

      Vacuum the home thoroughly. Sand flea eggs can get into carpet and sofa cushions, so any place the pet goes needs to be cleaned to help prevent reinfection. Pay particular attention to areas that the pet frequents, such as favorite chairs. Vacuum the car as well.

    • 3

      Wash any cushions or blankets that the animal might come in contact with, including any towels or blankets in the car. Wash any cloth toys as well.

    • 4

      Keep a continued and careful eye on your pet. Sand fleas that hatch from eggs left behind can easily reinfect the pet. Look for scratching and skin irritation, especially white bumps. The pet may also be suffering from a fever. Close examination of the areas the pet is scratching can reveal black spots or lesions.

    • 5

      Perform routine cleansing in the areas where the veterinarian removed the fleas. These will be small, open wounds, and they may be numerous. The veterinarian will typically prescribe a disinfectant that will keep the wound clean while not further irritating the tissues.

    • 6

      Keep a close eye on your pet's skin. If it shows signs of irritation or dry patches but no other signs of reinfection, the veterinarian may prescribe an antihistamine for relief from the itching. Regular baths with a moisturizing shampoo designed for the more delicate skin of puppies and kittens may also help.