How Can Bed Bugs Affect Dogs?
WouterBedbugs are an annoyance that can affect both humans and dogs. Their bites are red and itchy, and can lead to secondary skin infections. Although bedbugs do not transmit disease, you should avoid letting your dog sleep in a bed where bedbugs live. Fortunately, there are a few ways to detect bedbugs and avoid the inconvenience they cause.
To detect bedbugs, first inspect your dog’s bed and furniture for any signs of infestation. You should vacuum any bedding that may contain the bugs. If there are any, dispose of them in plastic bags. Also, clean the dog’s crate and bed thoroughly. It is important to use insecticidal shampoos for dogs and thoroughly clean their cages and beds. If your dog does have bedbugs, apply topical ointments and apply baking soda to the bite area.
Bedbugs live in the cracks of bed frames, mattress and box springs. They can also hide in clothing and curtains. Even electrical outlets and loose wall paper can harbor these creatures. Moreover, they will infest upholstered items and other items. If you find signs of bedbug infestation, it is important to contact your vet for a treatment.
Bedbugs usually hide in hiding places when they are not feeding. After feeding, the eggs hatch into nymphs, which are tiny versions of adults. After five generations of nymphs, bedbugs become adults and mate. They can feed for eight to 10 days. Once they are mature, they will mate and produce more eggs. Each of these stages needs a blood meal every eight to ten days. In some cases, they can go months without feeding.
