It has happened to most dog owners before. You notice your dog scratching and make the dreaded discovery of finding little menancing creatures in your pet's fur. Fleas can bite about 10 times in a matter of seconds and adult fleas reproduce at the rate of one egg per hour for every day of their life. Getting rid of the fleas first is your main priority. Then you must thoroughly remove fleas and eggs from all parts of your home or your dog will become infested again. The next step should be to alleviate your dog's intense scratching and help treat his flea bites.
Things You'll Need
- Flea shampoo
- Flea repellent for dogs
- Flea spray for home
Instructions
Bathe your dog. Use a flea and tick shampoo or take your dog to the groomer and ask for a flea bath. This will allow you time to go home and treat your house. A cool bath will ease your dog's itching. Water will act as a soothing agent on the skin lesions and the flea repellent in the shampoo will help prevent future infestation.
Apply aloe vera to your dog's lesions. Aloe is a natural agent that promotes healing and reduces swelling and irritation. Ask your vet or pet store for a recommendation.
Visit your vet if your dog's itching is severe or if he loses patches of fur and has bites that look infected. Many dogs are allergic to flea bites, which may result in dermatitis and infection. Apply hydrocortisone cream to the lesions. If that doesn't help, your vet can prescribe a steroid ointment to reduce inflammation.