Summer brings along with it fleas in every nook and cranny of your yard. As a responsible pet owner, you need to know what flea treatments are available for us. Not only do you need to prevent eggs from turning into pupae, you also want to make sure that you treat your hunting dogs and your pets bedding, and other areas where he plays and sleeps. Fortunately, we have Pyrethrin which is an insecticide which has been proven to be both safe and effective. Combine that with Methoprene and Fenoxycarb and you can prevent not just fleas but eggs and larvae as well.
A flea’s life span can range from 2 weeks to 8 months. Because the pupa is wrapped within the protection of a cocoon, insecticides will not affect them one bit. This is why they are extremely difficult to kill, and also the reason why pet owners experience another flea outbreak just 2 weeks for the first treatment. As the pupa stage ends and the adult flea develops, you are left in the same position you began.
Flea Baths
Using a regular flea prevention shampoo can help with flea control. One thing to be careful about though is flea dips – especially if you have children in the house. Flea dips are very harsh and most leave a residue on your dog – they’re only recommended in cases of very extreme infestation and should be discussed with your veterinarian before use.
Spot On Medications
This type of flea treatment is administered between the shoulder blades of the pet. It’s a monthly treatment that will kill adult fleas for sure, and some brands will even prevent larvae and egg growth. These medications can only be used on dogs older than eight weeks. Water activities, like swimming or baths can make spot on medications less effective.
Pill Flea Treatment
Known for its effect as a “flea birth control”, this is also a monthly treatment. When the flea bites your dog, they become sterile and die without every laying eggs. When this happens, the fleas will die out completely, leaving you flea-free. Since this type of treatment can’t be washed off in water, it is great for pets that live indoors.
Natural Methods
Looking for a low chemical way to control fleas? First, vacuum everything completely often. This includes carpet, furniture, pillows and pet bedding. Burn or toss the bag immediately. Next, launder everything you can in hot water. Finally, sprinkle dried pennyroyal, pyrethrum powder or diatomaceous earth into rugs, under cushions and mattresses and in pet bedding. (Don’t use pennyroyal if your pet is pregnant.) After a few days, repeat the whole cycle.
Clean from inside out
All of our dogs love to cuddle in their beds, on furniture and even on the carpeting. Unfortunately, these areas are favorite hiding spots for fleas as well. Vacuuming and treating all areas completely and thoroughly are the secret to success, however make sure that you don’t leave the bag in the vacuum or you’re just going to create a new nest for them. Your dog’s bed and bedding should be washed at least weekly in hot water to help prevent re-infestation.
Outside, fleas love wet, shady areas like dog houses, flower beds, and under decks or porches. Treat any location where your pet spends a lot of time. Fully mow and rake your yard. Get rid of leaves in flower beds and under bushes to increase the areas exposed to insecticides. The garage, basement and other places with non-carpeted floors should be thoroughly mopped to get rid of flea larvae hiding in crevices. Wash pet carriers and vacuum the car!
There are many foggers and sprays that are effective treatments of your home and yard. Read and follow the directions carefully. Heavily infested areas should be re-treated in 2 or 3 weeks.
The most important reason for treating fleas immediately is the hazard to both your family and your pet. Flea bites cause annoying itches that can lead to skin problems, dermatitis, hair loss (in your pets) and even infection. If your pet becomes infected from a flea bite they can wind up with anemia or even tapeworms which can lead to other health problems. Help your home stay flea free and your pet stay safe from possible flea infestations.
Posted under Dog Grooming, dog health
This post was written by admin on January 27, 2009
