Flea prevention is important for most dogs. Dogs can get fleas from being outdoors or from exposure to other animals. Fleas cause uncomfortable itching, exacerbate allergies and can carry diseases that affect both dogs and their owners. Many topical flea preventatives, such as flea drops, work by attacking the nervous system of existing fleas and their larvae.
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Resistant Fleas
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If you know that your dog's continued scratching is due to fleas, your flea treatment may not have been effective. Some over-the-counter brands of flea medication do not work as well as those requiring a prescription.
Dosages for most flea treatments are determined by weight. If you have underestimated your dog's weight, the dosage may not be strong enough. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
Fleas in the Environment
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If you have treated your dog with a prescription flea medication appropriate for his weight, yet find that he still has fleas, he is probably picking them up from his environment. After a flea infestation, you must treat all other pets at the same time.
You will need to treat the dog's bedding and toys, as well as your home. Fleas can live in your carpet without a host for up to two weeks. You can treat your home for fleas in several ways. The Texas Agricultural Extension Services' website suggests applying a boron-based powder to carpets and then vacuuming. In the case of severe infestation, you might choose to use a flea "bomb" or fogger to treat the entire house. Always consult a pest-control professional before using this type of product.
Allergies
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Your dog's itchy skin may be the result of allergies. Fleas often cause flea-bite dermatitis, which can result in excessive scratching or gnawing at the base of the tail. Even if your dog has been successfully treated for fleas, he may suffer from the lingering effects of the allergy dermatitis.
Dog allergies are common. According to the Pet Education website, if your dog rubs at his face, chews on his paws or scratches excessively with no evidence of fleas, he might be suffering from an allergic reaction to his food or something in his environment. A veterinarian can perform an allergy test.
Dry Skin
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A dog that scratches frequently does not necessarily have fleas. Many dogs suffer from dry skin for a number of reasons. Bathing too frequently is a common cause, as this strips the natural oils from the skin and coat. Dry skin can also be a dietary issue. Ask your veterinarian if you should consider a dietary supplement containing fatty acids for skin and coat health.
Alternatives to Flea Drops
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You can treat fleas in several ways without exposing your dog to potentially harmful chemical insecticides. The Flea Control Guide's website suggests mechanically removing fleas and eggs using a flea comb, then bathing the dog with regular dog shampoo. However, this may not remove all fleas and is impractical for longhaired dogs. You can also try an herbal flea treatment, such as a spray or collar containing natural insect repellants.
Other flea control products include chemical dips, shampoos, powders, collars and sprays. Consult a veterinarian and research a variety of brands and methods of flea treatment to determine the best product for you and your dog.
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