Are Bed Bugs on Dogs a Real Problem?
When you see bedbugs on a dog, you need to take action immediately. The problem is not that they are on the dog, but that they have been transported by your pet. Bedbugs are often found on furniture or crevices within a building. A dog’s fur can harbor bedbugs, but they won’t live on it. Instead, bedbugs prefer to live in luggage or used furniture, which move around less frequently than humans do.
Bedbug bites can cause itching and hair loss, which may lead to anxiety. Moreover, excessive scratching can result in secondary infections. Although bedbug bites do not spread diseases, they can make your dog feel uncomfortable. A veterinarian may help you to control the infestation. However, it is always advisable to check your dog for signs and symptoms, so you can act quickly.
If you suspect your dog is infested with bedbugs, the first step is to wash bedding and collars. Then, check for any signs of scratching. Bedbugs are spread by plush toys and bedding, so it is essential to inspect these for symptoms. Heat can also kill bedbugs.
Symptoms of a bedbug infestation include intense scratching and licking, and reddish, dry blood at the bite site. You may also see darker spots on bedding, which are evidence of bedbug feces. Bedbug eggs are tiny and difficult to detect. Bedbug eggs will crawl around pet bedding.