Fleas are small insects that you have no doubt come into contact with if you have a canine. They are abundant in humid, warm areas- so dog owners in temperate climates should find out how to get rid of such pests before they become a bigger problem.
Fleas prey on the blood of their victims, and thus leave behind an itchy sore that can last for several days or even a week. If you spot even only just a few bites, you should get a vacuum and go over the house very well. This will pick up all flea eggs that may have been laid by adult fleas, and make sure that the next generation of fleas won't have the chance to breed.
You should quarantine your dog while you are cleaning your home, since fleas on the dog can infect the house after your efforts in vacuuming. You will want to take steps to clean your dog, such as combing the hair of the dog to ensure all adult fleas are done swept off. Do this outside, so as to not brush the fleas off inside your home and possibly give fleas a new target.
Consider giving your dog a bath, or at least using flea medication powder to help keep fleas away from your pet. Some medications will be dangerous to other pets or small children, so be sure to buy medication that is safe for the whole family if applicable. Other medications can be ingested by the dog for an easier method of delivering the anti-flea medication.
Your yard may have something to do with your pet bringing fleas inside. Any area that is moist or shaded from the sun during Summer months is prime location for an adult flea to lay eggs. You should try to clear such debris, so eggs will not have a place to hatch. As long as the fleas in your yard don't have a place to live, your dog will stop getting infected from outside.
If you believe you have tried all that you can in fighting a flea infestation, yet the problem persists, you will need to call a professional. Special chemicals and compounds can be used to rid your home of fleas, but at great costs. In addition to the fees of the professional, you may have to rent a hotel room to stay in for a couple of days while the chemicals do their work. You will also have to find a temporary home for your pet.
In Conclusion:
You should visit your local veterinarian for more information on medication and tips on handling the flea infestation you are experiencing. In doing so, you will better your chances at not only defending against the attack, but keeping your home safe in the future.
