How Fleas Affect Dogs
WouterThere are several reasons why you should take your dog to a vet to check for fleas. Aside from causing discomfort and itchiness, fleas are also responsible for transmitting a number of illnesses to dogs. If left unchecked, fleas can cause serious health problems for your dog, including tapeworms and Flea-Bite Anemia.
The most effective method for controlling fleas is to prevent them from reproducing in the first place. To control the number of fleas that are already present in your home, you can start by regularly vacuuming and washing your dog’s bedding. Another good way to prevent fleas from developing in your house is to keep it shady and protected. Outdoor spots where your dog spends time playing and relaxing are prime places for flea development.
Fleas are small parasites that live in the fur of dogs. They bite your dog’s entire body, causing severe itching. When a dog is infested with fleas, they will scratch a lot more than they would under normal conditions. As adults, fleas will leave their cocoon when they detect a new host, such as a human.
The larvae of fleas are small, worm-like insects that have brown heads and squiggly bodies. Once they are mature, they can live up to twelve months on a host, and can deposit eggs in bedding, carpets, and gardens. Fleas multiply rapidly by laying eggs, and an infestation can continue for many months. Fleas breed most often in warmer climates, so they tend to spread more quickly in these regions.
