Where Does My Dog Keep Getting Fleas From?
WouterIf your dog is constantly getting fleas, you’re not alone. Fleas are parasitic insects that must live on another living creature to develop into adult fleas. Dogs can contract fleas from several sources, including other dogs, wild animals, and even the air they breathe.
One way to protect your dog against fleas is to keep it indoors. Fleas can jump up to 12 inches and spread from one dog to another. You can also keep him away from other animals, such as cats, by using a flea preventative for dogs.
The most obvious symptom of flea infestations is the constant scratching caused by fleas. Not only does this cause irritation, but it can also lead to hair loss and other skin problems. In severe cases, flea bites can cause flea-bite anemia and tapeworms. Fortunately, fleas can be easily treated with anti-itch creams.
Another common remedy for fleas is apple cider vinegar, which can be given orally or applied topically to the dog’s skin. It works by making the dog’s skin acidic and less attractive to fleas. A mixture of apple cider vinegar and warm water can also be sprayed on your dog’s fur to keep fleas away.
Another way to identify fleas is the white towel test. Simply brush or comb your dog on a white towel, spray it with a spray bottle, and look for reddish brown specks. These are fleas’ dirt and feces. Once fully grown, fleas will jump onto a new host. Fleas are attracted to air currents, carbon dioxide, light, and touch, so if your dog is scratching or licking his body, you should get rid of the fleas as soon as possible.
