Fleas can cause a host of problems for both you and your pet. But with a multi-layered approach to flea control, you and your pet can enjoy flea-free fun together.

The dog flea (Ctenocephalides canis) lives primarily off the blood of dogs; an act that in itself can spread tapeworm infestation and other diseases. Other problems caused by fleas may range from mild to severe itching and discomfort to skin problems and infections. In extreme circumstance Anaemia may also result from fleabites. When fleas trouble dogs, they scratch and bite themselves - especially in areas where fleas normally concentrate in such as the head, neck and around the tail. The incessant scratching and biting may cause the dog’s skin to become red and inflamed.

Flea allergy dermatitis is developed by dogs allergic to flea saliva. In this case, the symptoms previously mentioned are more pronounced. Because of compulsive scratching and biting, the dog may lose hair, get bald spots, exhibit hot spots due to extreme irritation and develop infections that result in smelly skin.

Dog fleas can live without food for several months but females must have a blood meal before they can produce eggs. They can deliver about 4,000 eggs on the host’s fur and the whole lifecycle from egg to adult takes from two to three weeks.

When you find fleas on your pet you need to get rid of them as soon as possible. Thankfully, topical medications have revolutionized the way we can treat fleas. Topical medications such as Frontline Spot On, Advantage and Fiprospot all act in similar ways, preventing and repelling fleas - and killing fleas that actually land on your pet. Because topical flea medications work in conjunction with the natural oils in your pet’s skin, wait two days after bathing to apply the medications and do not allow swimming or bathing for 4 days after application. In the summer, or in the face of severe flea infestations, Frontline or Advantage can be safely applied at three-week intervals to ensure effectiveness. In addition, these products can be rotated so that fleas in the environment do not become resistant to one particular product.

Along with topical products that kill adult fleas on your pet, another valuable product in preventing fleas are medications that contain and insect growth regulator. These medications halt the life cycle of fleas, by preventing live fleas from laying viable eggs, effectively cutting off the life cycle of the flea. These medications, such as Sentinel, are not a good choice for instantly controlling a flea infestation, but are excellent for ensuring long-term flea control.

When fleas are discovered on your pet, treating your pet is very important - but if you don’t treat the environment your pet lives in, the fleas will continue to thrive and flourish in your home and yard, constantly re-infesting your pet.

Vacuuming your home is one of the most important ways to control and help eradicate fleas. Make sure you regularly vacuum carpets, floors, and especially areas around where your pet sleeps such as blankets beds, sofas, etc.

Finding fleas on your pet and in your home can be a terrible discovery so make sure you select the right dog flea treatments to keep your pet, your home, and your family flea-free.

Disclaimer: The above article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a veterinarian nor is the source to be used as a diagnostic tool as there may be various conditions that may resemble the descriptions provided.