Is Fleas Bad For Dogs?
WouterFleas are a nuisance that many dog owners find annoying. Not only are they bothersome, but they can also be dangerous to your dog’s health. Fleas can cause anemia and other health problems for your dog. They also have a negative effect on your dog’s blood work, so it’s important to get rid of them as soon as possible. In the South, fleas can be found throughout the year, so it’s best to keep them out of the house as much as possible.
Adult fleas lay eggs on the dog’s skin and hair. They can lay as many as 50 eggs per day and can survive for two weeks without a host. This means that your dog may get fleas from nearby dog parks, kennels, and backyards. In addition, adult female fleas can lay up to 50 eggs per day and can live up to 100 days. The eggs hatch into larvae and pupae, and then mature into adult fleas. They also survive without feeding, and can live for up to six months without a blood meal.
Over-the-counter topical flea products can be effective. Advantage II, for example, can be applied directly to the skin and under the fur on your dog. This method is different from oral flea medications in that it kills through contact rather than by being absorbed through the fur. The treatment should start working within 12 hours and last for 30 days.
