How Fleas Get on Dogs
WouterThere are many ways that fleas can get on your dog. Fortunately, there are some simple steps that you can take to avoid having a flea infestation in your dog. The first step is to identify your pet’s environment. Your pet may have been exposed to fleas from other animals in the area, and this may have caused an infestation. The next step is to try to find the source of the fleas.
If you’re unsure of where fleas live, consult your veterinarian. They can prescribe a flea treatment that will kill adult fleas for several weeks. Your veterinarian can also give you advice on flea prevention. Remember to apply the flea prevention product to the areas where flea larvae are likely to be present.
Another common way that fleas get on dogs is through contact with wild animals. When dogs explore open spaces, they may come into contact with deer and rodents. To avoid this problem, try to discourage wildlife from entering your yard. Also, avoid leaving out food or seeds for your dog. It’s also a good idea to keep garbage bags in trash cans, as they can attract hungry foxes and other animals.
Fleas can live on your dog for weeks, or even months. The adult flea’s life cycle is around a month, but can extend up to a year. Adult fleas lay a light, oval egg on the host animal. Once the egg hatches, the flea’s larvae feed on the animal’s blood, which is why it’s so important to clean your dog regularly.
