Parasites as tenacious as fleas are very difficult to remove without special means. These insects adapt to any conditions. In addition to drinking blood, they are carriers of infections and some diseases. The affected animal may die without appropriate treatment. Therefore, as soon as you notice the presence of pests, you need to immediately take the necessary measures.
Reasons for appearance
Even a pet that does not interact with other four-legged animals and does not walk on its own can develop fleas. It is enough to walk once through the grass on which an infected individual was running for pests to appear. In a week, their colony will grow to such a number that even without close communication with the animal, a person will notice it.
Approximately 5-10% of fleas live on the dog, while the rest are found in the environment (indoors). As a rule, these are larvae, eggs and pupae. No amount of thorough cleaning will get rid of them, nor will insecticides. It can take up to 200 days to wait before hatching if there is no suitable potential host.
This is interesting: many compare fleas to lice. But this is a misconception. They reproduce faster and do not attach eggs to the hairs, which is why they roll down and end up on the floor, furniture and other household items where the pet has been.
Miniature breeds of dogs, which in principle rarely walk outside, are also susceptible to infection. Fleas end up in the house by being carried on shoes, through the doormat, or similar ways. The main thing, as soon as you notice that the animal is constantly itching, is to take appropriate measures and not delay treatment.
How to remove a tick
If you find a tick attached to your dog, do not pull it out under any circumstances. To remove it:
- Take tweezers and grab the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Gently pull out the tick by turning it clockwise or counterclockwise.
- Do not pull sharply upward or loosen the tick, otherwise you will tear off its head, which will remain in the body. He may also get scared and inject dangerous saliva into the blood.
To make removing a tick easier, buy a special device in the store in advance and follow the instructions.
Symptoms of infection
A healthy pet will have few insects. He himself will do an excellent job of getting rid of them by catching and biting them. But when there are too many fleas, your four-legged friend is unable to solve the problem. The parasites are small and mobile, and they also jump well. The longer the dog's fur, the more difficult it is to notice them on it.
Main features:
- The dog scratches furiously and bites different parts of its body.
- The pet doesn't sleep well. Due to constant discomfort, he may become irritable and appear restless, nervously wandering around the house.
- In advanced cases, the animal develops an allergy to parasites, or more precisely, to their saliva. The eyes water, a rash appears on the skin, small blisters and pustules that burst and turn into ulcers and scabs. The latter are already causing the formation of bald patches and bloody wounds.
- If the dog has a dark color, it is easier to see white insect eggs on the fur. They are approximately 1 mm in size and look like grains of rice.
The easiest way to check if your pet has fleas is to simply bathe them. When in contact with a large amount of liquid, insects will climb on the animal's head or jump into the water. But the most reliable method is visiting a veterinarian.
Important: if blood-sucking parasites are present, puppies may develop anemia.
Professional diagnostics
A qualified veterinarian only needs to conduct a visual examination of the animal to determine whether it has fleas. As a rule, the neck and abdomen are examined first, where the skin is the most delicate.
Additionally, the doctor observes the patient’s behavior and checks the mucous membranes. Even at the initial stage of infection, there are no problems with making the correct diagnosis. Based on the degree of development of the disease, appropriate treatment is prescribed.
Spray Bars
A domestically produced antiparasitic drug intended for regular treatment of the fur of your four-legged friend. It is based on permethrin, an insecticide that causes side effects in cats. For dogs, Bars is absolutely safe, especially for larger pets. The spray is used to treat animals older than 2.5 months. The manufacturer recommends using it outdoors, at a distance of 0.3 m from the pet’s skin. Relatively low cost is another advantage of Bars spray.
Review
Fleas are a common occurrence for dogs, and doubly common for hunting dogs. After every visit to the forest, I treat my pets with Bars spray, since there are so many bloodsuckers that they can be seen even with the naked eye. After using the spray, the parasites die right before your eyes. The effect lasts for a month. And the cost of the product is relatively low. I also use Frontline spray and drops.
Oleg, Voronezh
Flea remedies for dogs: descriptions and instructions
If you are planning to fight fleas yourself, you should adhere to several rules:
- Consider the type of animal, its age and weight. For example, cat medicine is not suitable for a dog.
- Before use, be sure to read the instructions for use.
- Rarely, but cases of contact allergies do occur. Mainly from collars. If you notice such a reaction, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.
- In addition to treating your four-legged friend, not only his sleeping place, but also the entire house is treated for insects.
There is a wide variety of drugs and other remedies for parasites. Each of them is effective in its own way and has both advantages and disadvantages.
Shampoos
An effective flea treatment for dogs with severe infestations and large amounts of insect feces. A competent specialist will help you determine which shampoo to choose, but you can do this yourself, based on the characteristics of your pet’s breed.
"Phytoelite"
Insecticidal hygiene product. The main active substance is permethrin. The mechanism of action is to block nerve impulses, causing incoordination, paralysis, and, as a consequence, the death of parasites. The auxiliary elements included in the composition are aimed at improving the condition of the coat. It becomes shiny and easier to comb.
Mode of application:
- Bathe the animal in warm water and apply shampoo at the rate of 1 ml per 1 kg of weight. You may need more if your pet is a long-haired breed.
- Rub the drug in until a rich foam forms, but carefully avoid contact with mucous membranes.
- Rinse off with warm water until no trace remains after 5 minutes.
- Dry the fur and comb it with a fine comb.
- If necessary, another treatment is done. To prevent re-infection, replace the pet's bedding or wash the old ones in a 2:1 solution of water and shampoo. But contact with an infected dog is not allowed for three days.
If the instructions are strictly followed, no side effects or complications are observed. The exception is individual intolerance of the animal’s body.
Cost: from 90 to 120 rubles.
Important: sick and convalescent animals should not be washed with this shampoo. As well as pregnant and lactating females, as well as puppies up to 2 months old.
Doctor Zoo
Gentle anti-flea and tick shampoo for dogs made from natural ingredients. It can be used for puppies from 2 weeks old, pregnant, lactating and sick pets. Suitable for getting rid of almost all types of external parasites. With regular use, it protects against the appearance of new ones.
The composition includes surfactants that allow the substance to foam perfectly, which greatly facilitates the process of use. It has a slight deodorizing effect and leaves an unobtrusive pleasant aroma on the wool for a long time.
Mode of application:
- Moisten your pet with warm water.
- Apply shampoo and lather to cover the entire body of the animal except the head. For a medium-sized dog, 20 ml is enough.
- Rinse everything off, dry and comb out.
There is another way:
- Mix 600 ml of warm water and 30 ml of shampoo.
- Lather and apply to dry fur. Rub in, let it act for 3 minutes and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Does not cause allergic reactions.
Cost: from 125 to 140 rubles.
Beaphar
BIO shampoo for skin parasites. Suitable for adults and puppies over 3 months. The main active substance is essential oils, which have insecticidal properties and have a beneficial effect on the coat. They reduce itching from bites and clean fur and skin. When used regularly, they repel pests.
Repellent action ensures the first use. The effect lasts up to 3-5 days.
Instructions:
- It is good to wet the entire fur with warm water.
- Apply shampoo so that it does not get into the eyes, mouth, nose and ears. Lather.
- Wait 3 minutes. and wash off.
If necessary, you can repeat no more than 2 times a week.
Cost: from 720 to 815 rubles.
Tip: Most medications for blood-sucking insects for dogs are also suitable for cats.
"Sweetheart"
Insecticidal agent against ectoparasites and for hair and skin care. Suitable for adult dogs and puppies.
The method of use is standard: treat damp skin and hair with the product until foaming, wait 5 minutes. and wash off. After drying, comb the fur with a dry comb.
If necessary, re-processing is carried out. As a preventive measure, when used seasonally, it can protect against infection.
Cost: from 85 to 90 rubles.
"4 with a tail"
Insecticidal shampoo with repellent effect. The main active ingredient is citronella oil. It consists of natural ingredients, therefore it is harmless for pregnant and lactating females, puppies older than 2 weeks and pets prone to allergies.
It is used as a simple shampoo for animals, but after foaming you need to wait from 3 to 55 minutes for the effect to be maximum. Helps against all types of skin parasites.
Cost: from 83 to 120 rubles.
How to remove fleas and ticks using drops
As a rule, they are applied to the withers so that the animal cannot lick the drug. This type of insecticide is the most common used against fleas. The substance is absorbed into the subcutaneous tissue and affects pests upon direct contact: it kills the adult and significantly slows down the development of the larvae, which also leads to their death.
Important: flea and tick drops for dogs based on essential oils have an exclusively repellent effect and are used to prevent parasites, but do not get rid of them.
Hartz
A fast-acting and effective remedy that helps remove fleas and ticks. It even kills mosquitoes and other blood-sucking parasites.
Features of the drug:
- The effect of the pipette is designed for 30 days. Pack of 3 pieces. - for 90 days.
- There are different sizes of droppers designed for each breed. Therefore, you should make a choice based on the size of your pet.
- The substance is waterproof and does not wash off when swimming.
- Drops are not recommended for sick, pregnant or lactating individuals, as well as puppies under 1 year of age.
It is enough to apply it to the dog’s withers to forget about fleas for a whole month. They are also used as prophylaxis.
Cost: from 110 to 250 rubles.
Stronghold
The active substance is selamectin. It has a wide spectrum of systemic antiparasitic effects on insects, nematodes and mites. Has a detrimental effect on larvae and adults.
Used for the treatment and prevention of infection only externally. The drug is applied to the withers. It is important that the substance gets directly onto the skin - 6 mg per 1 kg of pet’s weight. Even when infected with several types of parasites, a single dose is sufficient.
Prohibited for use on puppies under 6 weeks of age.
Cost: from 400 to 670 rubles.
Tip: when choosing a medicine for a specific breed, you need to pay attention to the color of the pipette cap - this is a visual marking of the dosage. More accurate data is indicated on the packaging.
"Leopard"
Suitable for pets over 8 weeks of age. Relevant for the treatment or prevention of entomoses (lice, fleas, lice) and ticks.
Features of the drug:
- least toxic to warm-blooded animals;
- highly effective;
- simple and easy to use;
- The volume of dropper pipettes varies depending on the weight for each type of rock.
After application to the skin, the substance, like most other similar drugs, is not absorbed into the bloodstream, but is distributed throughout the body through the sebaceous glands. Not only getting rid of parasites, but also creating a protective barrier against them for some time.
No side effects were observed.
Cannot be used on animals:
- weakened by illness;
- pregnant women;
- lactating females;
- weighing less than 2 kg.
Cost: from 120 to 250 rubles.
"Clandestine" Junior: flea drops for puppies
A highly effective remedy for combating blood-sucking parasites. Suitable for puppies over 3 months.
Apply by drop method to dry skin in places that are inaccessible for licking. Most often this is the neck area, the base of the skull, and the area between the shoulder blades. There should be no open wounds nearby.
No side effects were observed.
Cost: from 150 to 200 rubles.
In-Up complex
Suitable for adult animals and babies weighing up to 10 kg. Kills fleas within 24-48 hours, depending on the degree of infestation. The duration of the protective effect is 7 weeks. It has a complex property, as it also treats helminths.
The solution for external use is applied once to the withers or between the shoulder blades.
No side effects were observed.
Cost: from 180 to 220 rubles.
Palladium ultra protect
Drops on the withers against fleas and ticks, which protect not only from parasites, but also from the diseases they spread. Valid for 4 months. It should be applied to dry, intact skin in a place inaccessible to licking. Capsules are sold in various capacities, designed for pet weights from 1.5 to 60 kg.
No side effects were observed.
Cost: from 150 to 420 rubles.
How to get rid of fleas with insectoacaricide powders
Products that kill pests that parasitize animals. Water-soluble substances in the form of powder or granules differ in the type of action: contact, intestinal and systemic. The latter enter the blood of insects and have a detrimental effect on the nervous system.
All insectoacaricides of this type are odorless, but remain chemicals. Therefore, sanitation is carried out using human protective equipment (rubber gloves and a respirator).
Pros: economical and high efficiency.
Disadvantages: used mainly by breeders, since the drug is sold in large containers, and rarely in portioned packages.
Cost: from 250 to 3000 rubles.
Effective sprays and aerosols
Apply to the entire skin against the growth of the coat. The effect will begin after 15-30 minutes. But after this, you need to monitor your pet for another 1 hour until everything is dry, so that he does not lick himself. The same drug is used to treat the frequent habitats of the infected four-legged friend, his toys and combs.
"Frontline"
One of the best means for combating ectoparasites and preventing their occurrence. Does not lose its properties under the influence of UV and water. After application, it is fixed on the fur and creates both a trap and a shield against parasites.
Instructions for use:
- Treat the animal outdoors or indoors near an open window.
- When spraying, keep the bottle at a distance of 10 to 20 cm from the pet’s body. Apply against the grain, otherwise the substance will not be fully effective.
- Be sure not to forget about the stomach, ears, folds of skin and neck - places where insects most actively accumulate.
- Wear a rubber glove and rub the medicine into the animal's skin to enhance its effect.
Important: Avoid contact with the dog's eyes, nose and mouth. Otherwise, you can harm your four-legged friend and provoke poisoning with active substances.
After the procedure, let the product dry and comb out the hair. You should not allow the chemical to be licked or your pet to be allowed near the fire.
Re-processing is performed as necessary. But even with severe lesions, most often one is enough.
Cost: from 1300 to 1400 rubles.
Spray Beaphar
Used for dogs, cats and even decorative rodents. Suitable for sanitizing animal habitats. Affects all life stages of flea development.
The composition includes aloe vera, which has a beneficial effect on the skin and promotes wound healing.
One treatment is enough to get rid of insects and protect your pet for a month.
Instructions for use:
- Shake the contents of the bottle.
- Spray against the fur at a distance of at least 10 cm from the animal’s body. Movement from tail to head.
- Treat the neck, ears, abdomen and skin folds.
- Allow to dry naturally, without allowing the dog to lick or rub against objects.
- Brush thoroughly. Do not wash off!
Tip: the spray may leave stains on things. It is recommended to perform the procedure outdoors or lay down polyethylene.
The drug has a persistent chemical odor that is harmful to humans. Therefore, during the event, wear a protective mask and carry out all manipulations in a well-ventilated area.
Repeated treatment will be required no earlier than 1 month later, but the animal must first be bathed.
Prohibited for use on pregnant or lactating females, as well as individuals with open injuries.
Cost: from 1100 to 1250 rubles.
Spray Hartz
The product gets rid of blood-sucking parasites and protects against the appearance of new ones within a week. The pet is processed according to a standard procedure, taking into account compliance with safety rules. If the breed causes the presence of long hair, it is necessary to process it completely in order to apply the active substances to the skin.
Important: 48 hours after the procedure, you should not pet your four-legged friend or let him near children.
Do not use on pregnant or lactating females, puppies or animals with wounds.
It is found less and less often in stores, since the drug has been discontinued.
Cost: from 1000 to 1200 rubles.
"Leopard"
The chemical has a pronounced contact and intestinal insectoacaricidal property. It has a detrimental effect only on sexually mature parasites. Suitable for any pets. Apply in the standard manner.
Advantages:
- high efficiency;
- repellent effect;
- long-term protection against insects;
- Ideal for treating animals and their habitats.
Contraindicated for pregnant, lactating, sick and animals younger than 10 weeks. For large breeds, several bottles may be needed.
Cost: from 200 to 250 rubles.
Bayer Bolfo
Aerosol in a metal bottle for external use. The treatment is a one-time procedure. The product is sprayed at a distance of 15-20 cm against the fur to gain access to the skin. Repeat according to indications no more than 1 time in 7 days. Safe for puppies over 3 months old. It is acceptable to use on pregnant and lactating females, but after consultation with a veterinarian.
Treating your pet's habitats and personal belongings will prevent the breeding of new parasites. 4 sprays per 1 sq.m. are enough. After 2 hours, cleaning with a vacuum cleaner is mandatory.
Cost: from 400 to 500 rubles.
"Api-San"
Suitable only for medium-sized dogs and adult dogs. Use according to standard instructions, taking into account compliance with safety regulations. More suitable for cats.
Cost: from 220 to 250 rubles.
BIO-GROOM Flea&Tick Residual Spray
Spray against ectoparasites. Allows you to get rid of pests and control their occurrence within 14 days. The active ingredients are pyrethrin and permethrin with lanolin. Apply according to standard instructions. Dangerous for pregnant females, puppies and sick animals.
Cost: from 750 to 850 rubles.
Flea collars
There are two types: chemical and repellent. The first are with an applied substance that is absorbed into the subcutaneous tissue and protects the pet upon contact. The latter only repel parasites.
Beaphar
Suitable for animals over six months of age. The length of the product is 65 cm, but is adjustable with a clasp. Water resistant. Comes in different colors. Destroys parasites and protects against re-infection. There is a Bio model, which is a green tape made of polyvinyl chloride impregnated with a composition of natural ingredients. Performs a purely preventive function lasting 4 months. Suitable for puppies.
Cost: from 322 to 378 rubles.
Hartz
Validity period: 7 months. Of which 5, the product destroys fleas, and another 2 repels. After opening, the collar needs to be stretched a little in order for the substances applied to it to be activated. Under the influence of a chemical reaction, a white coating will appear on the inside. Only after this can you put the product on the dog. After a couple of days, full protection is activated. During this period, some insects are neutralized, and then all the rest die.
Cost: from 900 to 950 rubles.
Important: do not use on animals infected with infections and puppies under six months old. Use on pregnant females is allowed, but after consultation with a doctor.
"4 with a tail"
A repellent accessory designed to repel pests. There are 3 different sizes for small, medium and large breed dogs.
Active substances are made only from natural ingredients. Continuous wearing guarantees 3 months of protection. In case of individual hypersensitivity, it can provoke allergies.
Cost: from 70 to 150 rubles.
"Leopard"
Insectoacaricidal collar for dogs of various breeds. The active substances act on mature fleas and larvae, gradually releasing onto the tape. They are transferred to the skin and absorbed. Works up to 5 months.
Properties: from 180 to 250 rub.
"Celandine"
Highly effective collar against ectoparasites. Thanks to active substances, it protects against insects for up to 4 months. They are gradually released from the tape and absorbed into the hair follicles. Does not rub or injure the skin. If the accessory is worn regularly, not a single insect will survive on the dog.
Cost: from 1100 to 1200 rubles.
Chewable tablets
A new type of protection. Absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and enters the blood. The action begins a few hours after consumption. Not recommended for puppies less than 8 weeks of age and dogs weighing up to 2 kg.
How to use:
- It is necessary to select a dosage appropriate to the weight and age of the dog.
- Single appointment.
- You need to make sure your pet swallows the medicine.
Manufacturers specially produce the drug in the form of seeds or with flavorings reminiscent of the taste of the animal’s favorite food so that the dog does not refuse.
Bravecto
An excellent option for four-legged friends who are sensitive to contact insecticides and capricious. The composition contains only one active substance - fluralaner. It is distributed systemically, which leads to the highest efficiency in the fight against parasites.
Peculiarities:
- prevention and treatment;
- Suitable for dogs older than 8 weeks and weighing more than 2 kg;
- Use during pregnancy or lactation of a female is allowed.
It begins to act 8 hours after administration, and after 12 it already destroys all pests. Protects against re-infection for 12 weeks.
Cost: from 1200 to 1700 rubles.
"Comfortis"
Popular among amateurs and professional breeders. The medicine is universal for baiting all parasitic insects, including fleas. The action is provided by the active substance of the biological type - spinosad. It also contains flavoring additives that attract the pet's attention.
The protection is valid for a month.
Cost: from 2000 to 4500 rubles.
How to protect your puppy from ticks
Most flea and tick treatments are made for puppies 8 weeks and older. Until this time, it is necessary to protect its contact with the environment. It is important to remember that he should not be allowed outside until the vaccination is completed. The first vaccination is given at 2 months, the second after 10 days.
Therefore, when the doctor allows the puppy to go outside, it can already be treated with drops against fleas and ticks. Manufacturers of Bravecto, Nesgard, Simparica claim that the tablets can be given for 8 weeks. But it is important to remember that a young, growing organism can react negatively to any chemical, so drops against ticks are preferable.
If you pick up a puppy with fleas and ticks from the street, wash it with shampoo several times at short intervals. For example, Doctor Zoo can be used from 2 weeks. It has a mild effect, and the risk of infection is higher than the risk of getting a negative reaction from the drug. If Doctor Zoo is not in the pharmacy, ask your veterinarian to sell a product that can be used to treat babies against fleas and ticks.
Folk remedies: table
Active substances | Recipe and application |
Tar soap | Used for swimming. It must be applied to wet wool, lathered, and wait 5 minutes. and wash off. Brush the dog thoroughly. |
Lemon water | Boil 6 crushed citrus fruits in 1 liter of water for 10 minutes. Leave for 8 hours in a covered container. Filter, pour into a container with a spray bottle and spray the wool. Repeated treatment no earlier than after 1 day. |
Garlic solution | Crush 3 large cloves of garlic and add 250 ml of water. Leave overnight, and in the morning apply the concentrate in a small amount to the withers. |
Essential oils | Take equal parts of lavender, eucalyptus and tea tree extracts. Treat the dog's hair. Relevant for small breeds. |
Salt bath | It is allowed to bathe a pet in this solution only if there are no wounds on the body, which is impossible if there is a large flea infestation, since the animal itches a lot. Sometimes to the point of bleeding. Dissolve a pack of table salt in 10 liters of warm water and wash the dog. Rinse off with running water after a couple of minutes. |
Apple vinegar | Mix vinegar with water in a ratio of 1:3 and rinse the dog with the resulting liquid. Can be used as a spray. |
Brewer's yeast | Used as a food additive. For small breeds - 1 tsp and 1 tbsp. - for large ones. |
Removing fleas from a pregnant dog
When treating a pregnant female, you should take into account how the process will affect the future litter. Today, there are several products that can be used for pregnant dogs, and even lactating ones.
One of the safest is the drug “Frontline” in the form of a spray or drops on the withers. But when using this medicine, cases have been noticed that 2-4 days after the procedure the opposite effect occurs. Manufacturers explain this by the effect of the chemical composition, and therefore recommend refraining from walking for a while.
Treatment with “Advocate” drops is also effective. A single use will protect the dog for a month. The main condition for proper flea treatment is to clean not only the animal, but also its habitat.
It is not recommended to use any collars during pregnancy, even the most proven ones.
Important: veterinarians and experienced breeders strongly advise against using any antiparasitic chemicals one week before the bitch is expected to give birth.
Antiparasitic collar or drops?
In addition, many breeders prefer to use an anti-parasitic collar. But it is difficult to consider it a full-fledged replacement due to the specific qualities of such protection:
- Collars are often made from the cheapest and roughest materials. This leads to the fact that they cannot be properly fixed on the dog’s neck.
- Dogs are very “gnawing” creatures, and therefore there is a high chance that the dog, having thrown off the “harness” from its neck, will first slobber all over it thoroughly. Nothing good will come of this, since insecticides taken orally are a strong and very unpleasant toxin.
- Finally, if the dog is large, then there will be no fleas on the neck, but they will feel great on the rump. The effect of the collar, unfortunately, does not extend that far.
But there are also positive nuances. Firstly, collars can in most cases be used to protect pregnant and lactating bitches. Secondly, they are also used to protect puppies.
Room treatment
Considering the fact that most fleas do not live on the dog, but in the environment, they cannot be completely eliminated if you ignore the need to treat them at home.
Treating your apartment for dog fleas
First of all, you should prepare:
- Carry out a thorough cleaning.
- Remove food and seal it tightly.
- If you have aquarium fish, you will have to turn off the compressor for a while and cover the tank.
- It is better to remove reptiles and small decorative rodents from the premises.
- Wash fabric covers, curtains, etc. Be sure to disinfect your slippers.
- Knock out mattresses, blankets and pillows. If necessary, have carpets dry cleaned. But it is enough to vacuum, just like upholstered furniture.
- Prepare insecticide.
You can purchase an aerosol to treat the animal, and use it to treat the pet’s habitat after washing the bed.
In addition, there are three categories of insecticides for indoor treatment: sprays, powders, and liquid concentrates. When choosing, you should pay attention to the composition; it should contain pyrethrins, pyrethroids, imidacloprid.
The “Clean House” dust is considered one of the effective methods of baiting, but in relation to fleas - only with an integrated approach. Powders such as “Delicia”, “Pyrethrum”, “Phenaxin” are also successfully used.
Any aerosol insect repellent is suitable. The most effective: “Raptor”, “Raid”, “Dichlorvos”, “Dr. Klaus from ants and other insects."
Advice: when you don’t want to deal with bullying yourself, you should call exterminators who will solve the problem efficiently and quickly.
Dog house treatment
Disinfection should be carried out regularly to maintain the well-being of your furry friend and his health. An enclosure or kennel is the place where your pet most often visits. Ignoring sanitary standards can lead to infection or worsening the condition of a sick animal.
First of all, you need to clean the sleeping areas and the area nearby. Then disinfection is carried out. This is usually done using a solution of formalin, Lysol or creolin. The latter is the most affordable, effective and easy to dilute (30-50 ml per 10 liters of water, the emulsion is heated to 60°C before processing). The method of use of each drug is indicated in the instructions for it.
The bed is washed in hot water, the kennel is sprayed, and then the sleeping area is sprayed, for prevention.
You can also use natural remedies to treat flea boxes. Use a mixture of liquid soap with essential oils of cedar, eucalyptus, lavender, mint, juniper, and tea tree. To do this, add 1 tsp to 100 ml of soap base or dog flea shampoo. 2-4 types of oil from those listed. This composition will help drive away fleas, destroy bacteria and unpleasant odors.
Tip: after treating the booth, place wormwood sprigs on the floor, and temporarily sprinkle pine sawdust on your pet instead of bedding. These will be additional measures to combat the parasite.
Safety rules for processing
To protect your health and that of others, when working with chemicals you need to follow simple rules:
- Perform all manipulations with the active substance wearing a respirator and rubber gloves.
- Treatment of premises ensures high-quality ventilation.
- Children should not be allowed to come into contact with the purified environment for several days.
- Use only freshly prepared solutions and check the expiration date of the drug before use.
It should be remembered that even with a low level of toxicity, any disinfectant substance is poisonous.
Pills
Since animals take the tablets reluctantly, owners try to use this form as little as possible when fighting fleas. But many veterinary experts note that the tablet form is highly effective.
Many veterinary pharmacies offer flea medications for dogs in the form of special pills that look like bones with a pleasant smell. Animals swallow them with pleasure.
It is worth noting! Flea medications in the form of tablets have one significant advantage - prolonged action. They can protect against fleas for 2 weeks to 3 months.
The most effective flea tablets for dogs are the following:
- Bravecto;
- Frontline NexGuard;
- Comfortis.
When using tablets, you should pay attention to important recommendations:
- despite the fact that the active ingredients of the drug are poison for bloodsuckers. They do not have a toxic effect on the animal;
- Before use, be sure to carefully study the instructions, which indicate the age of the animal allowed for use;
- the dosage should be calculated in accordance with the weight of the dog, it should not be exceeded in any case;
- The effect of the drug is observed within 3-4 hours after consuming the tablet.
Preventive actions
To protect your home from fleas, you should follow simple requirements.
- Carry out frequent general cleaning - at least once a week, wash floors with disinfectant, vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
- Treat your pet for parasites in a timely manner.
- Wash outdoor shoes thoroughly.
It is enough to observe the usual hygiene requirements, which are the same at all times. But the main thing is to carefully monitor the animal, since in most cases it is the animal that can bring parasites into the house.
Spray Hartz
Hartz spray has become famous for its absolute safety. Side effects when using it occur only in rare cases and only if the pet is individually intolerant to the components included in the drug. For puppies over 3 months of age, a special Hartz UltraGuard Plus Flea&Tick Spray is produced.
Hartz flea spray can also be used for preventive purposes, for example, before going for a walk.
Review
I want to leave my positive review of the Hartz flea spray. The drug is simply unique, even considering its high cost. Instant relief from parasites and no side effects. Hartz also protects against ticks and other blood-sucking insects. The dog is healthy and happy. Hartz is great!
Igor, Novosibirsk
Flea sprays
Are fleas on dogs dangerous for humans?
Human blood is not suitable for such insects, but they bite the legs when there is nothing else to feed on. Often these signs are used to detect fleas in the house, even in the absence of pets. There is a small chance of contracting an infection or developing an allergy to the saliva of parasites.
So the “dog” fleas themselves are basically harmless to humans, and only possible diseases that can be transmitted by them through bites are dangerous.
Insect infestation is a seasonal disease. They cannot tolerate low temperatures and therefore rarely survive winter. But preventing a problem is cheaper and easier than getting rid of it. Follow preventive measures, treat your pet on time, and annoying parasites will never bother you.
Precautionary measures
Precautionary measures with aerosol poisons must be observed without fail, since we are talking about the health of people and animals:
- Almost all insecticidal and acaricidal solutions are acutely toxic to bees, fish and aquatic animals.
- The product should not fall on the mucous membranes and systemic bloodstream, so when processing it is important to adhere to safety precautions.
- When using any product, there is a risk of an allergic reaction due to individual intolerance. Be prepared for side effects and the need to consult a doctor.
- Protect your hands if your skin is damaged.
- Use a respirator mask if your pet is large.
- Do not treat your dog in windy weather.
Important! If you experience dizziness, nausea, weakness or other alarming symptoms after using the spray, consult your doctor without delay.