It's not just you who loves your adorable little pet. Flea, tick and other parasitic infestations can beset your dog, causing discomfort or more serious problems. Most dogs which are allowed out into nature will at some point pick up dog's ticks, flea or other infestations.
Don't be alarmed though. For the most part these parasites are an ordinary nuisance that can be easily dealt with and eradicated.
However, a bad flea infestation on a dog's skin can result in sores and bald patches which can seriously harm or even kill your pet in extreme cases.
First of all let's look at the little critters concerned. It may come as a shock to know that there is more than one kind of flea! Dog and cat fleas exist, and they can live off human blood too, but cannot reproduce without their principal hosts. At 2.5 mm long the female is larger than the male.
Fleas are capable of jumping vertically for 5 or 6 inches (about 15 cm), and they can fasten themselves to skin or clothing. Fleas can quickly infest a residence by multiplying exponentially and can cause horrid living conditions.
What will kill fleas? Dogs are often treated with dips or shampoos, while flea collars work great for cats. An effective flea treatment is important as a regular routine for your pet. It can be confusing to decide what type of treatment will work best for your pet.
Flea control these days should be a regular part of taking care of your animal. There are many flea treatments on the market which work in different ways.
If there is an obvious infestation, using a medicated shampoo is very effective immediately. However, it is a temporary solution as very little medication remains on the animal's coat. This method is best if you would like an immediate flea-free environment.
Dips are a little harsh though for routine care and for lesser infestations. In these cases flea medications such as powders and sprays can be used, giving protection for several days from not only fleas but also ticks.
The optimal solution is the use of Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Control, as it is the top choice for animal doctors in North America. Frontline Plus is the product I use and suggest for others due to its effectiveness and ease of use.
Author Rebecca Foxton can help you defend your animal's health with
Frontline Plus for dogs and cats. Be sure to also check out her article series on
FortiFlora, the cutting edge in pet nutritional supplements.
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